Dora L. Munoz

Mrs. Dora L. Muñoz, 89, the beloved matriarch of the Lorenzana-Muñoz families of Mercedes, passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023, following a brief illness. Dora was predeceased by several cherished family members. These include her husband, Marcelo, her granddaughter, Alycia Dickinson, and parents, Rafael and Herminia Lorenzana, her sister, Noemi, her brother, Dionisio “Dan” Lorenzana and wife Guillermina and baby brother Rene. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Mrs. Ross “Vita” Corker and numerous other beloved family members and friends who held a special place in her heart. She leaves behind a loving family, including her children, sons Edward, Jose Luis “Luigi”, Jonathan, and Rolando, and daughters, Minerva Bernal, Patsy, Theresa (Colin Ross), Zerina (Todd Dickinson), and Zelina, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Dora is also survived by her loving siblings, Lilia Klentos (Johny) and Glenda Alaniz (Manuel), Rafael Lorenzana (Norma) and Jose Rolando (Oneida) Lorenzana. Dora left her family and friends with countless, joyful memories, including Sunday afternoon luncheons, tamaladas, and an unmatched love and passion for life. Dora’s home was open to all and all were welcomed to come over for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Many of her special guests included the Catholic Priests, especially the Oblates, and the Sisters who were serving or visiting Our Lady of Mercy Parish where Dora worked as the parish secretary for several years. She had many friends and family in Mexico who would come to stay “en la casa de Dorita” as well. There were many occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, holidays - filled with lively conversations, laughter and joy. She was likewise welcomed into many homes throughout Texas, the US and Mexico, no matter how many people she brought along with her. She always drove a big car – a station wagon or a suburban-and made sure that anyone who could fit would be included on the trip! A creative businesswoman whose motto was “Why not?” always found a way. At one time, she made clandestine trips into Mexico at night to carry merchandise to sell in Monterrey. Family lore includes a story of her packing the station wagon with electronics and crossing into Mexico late at night, twin daughters in tow. When the girls knew they were approaching the inspection point at Reynosa, they would pretend to fall asleep in the back where they wouldn’t be disturbed by the officer's making inspections because they were asleep. As soon as they passed inspection and they felt the car move, they would pop up wide awake to continue with their travels. As expressed by a dear friend of the family, “She was an amazing Mom and, also, a great friend to many. Aside from being a great leader and businesswoman, she was also a great advocate for the people and a strong voice in the community.” As our grief and sorrow subsides, the sun sets on an impeccable soul now at peace. Dora lived her life with a focus on caring for others, leaving a legacy that inspires us to strive to be the best versions of ourselves. Our fondest memories of her will shepherd us through the mourning ahead and prepare us to honor her to the fullest. Friends and family are invited to accompany the family on Sunday, May 21, from 2 p.m. until 9p.m. at Rudy Garza Funeral Home, of Mercedes, Texas, which oversees the funeral arrangements. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. on Sunday evening. The Celebration of Life Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Church on Monday, May 22, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery of Mercedes on Anaquitas Street.

Dora L. Munoz

November 9, 1933 - May 15, 2023

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