Juanita Gaona Castillo

Juanita Gaona Castillo, 85 years old, went home to the Lord on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen, Texas. Juanita was born on June 15, 1938 in Linares, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. As a child she was known as curious, inquisitive, and determined. She was raised on Christian values and beliefs that, later, guided many of her life's decisions. As a young lady Juanita decided to pursue a life in the United States. She met her husband, Manuel Castillo while attending church one day. They fell in love and were married on June 30, 1958. Juanita and Manuel raised 4 boys together in Harlingen, Texas. All graduates of Harlingen High School and successful in public service and business. Juanita held multiple vocations including working at the Kroger's Grocery store in Harlingen. Many will remember Juanita from her time as a radio broadcast host on Granitos De Sal in the 1980's. Her show focused on biblical discussion, devotionals, and encouragement for those in need of spiritual guidance. Additionally, she traveled across South Texas and Northern Mexico sharing the Word of God and impacting countless people. Juanita was an avid fan of American football, especially Harlingen Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys. When in good health, you could hear her cheering in the stands for her home team. Juanita was known as active and adventurous even into adulthood. She would roller skate with her sons and ride on their motorcycles. She was known as a hard worker, led by example and instilled the importance of honesty, courtesy, reliability, and trust in those around her. Above all, she lived a life of belief and trust in Jesus Christ as her personal savior. So much so that in her later years she successfully obtained a certificate in biblical studies. Juanita's wisdom, sincerity, and spiritual guidance will be missed by many friends and family. Her legacy of faith will live on in those she loved and impacted. She is survived by Manuel Castillo, Jr., her husband of 65 years. Sons, George L. Castillo (Erika), Saul Castillo, Danny Castillo (Chris) and Manuel Castillo III (Mari). Her brothers, Maclovio Gaona of Cuautla, Morelos, Mexico and Jose Gaona, Jr. of Brownsville. Her grandchildren include George Anthony Castillo, Jose Manuel Castillo, Christopher Daniel (Lindsey Castillo), Caleb Castillo, Erik Alonso Castillo and Andrea Stephania Castillo. Visitation will be held at Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen, Texas on Sunday, August 27,2023 from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM and a Celebration of Life will begin at 4:00 PM led by Pastor David Aguilar. Services will conclude Sunday, August 27, 2023, at 6:00 PM at Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen, Texas.

Juanita Gaona Castillo

June 15, 1938 - August 23, 2023

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