Melba Belinda Cantu

Melba Belinda Cantu, 63, of Harlingen, Texas, entered into Heaven on Saturday, February 1, 2025. She was born on October 13, 1961, in Harlingen to her loving parents, Jose Luis Cantu and Elvira Martinez. A proud graduate of Harlingen High School, Class of 1980, Melba was a dedicated member of the marching band. She went on to earn her degree from Pan American University in 1984. She was employed for many years at the Valley Morning Star and The Monitor. Most recently, she worked at Home Depot, where her strong work ethic and friendly personality made a lasting impact on those around her. Melba was an active member of the Resaca Jaycees and shared her beautiful voice as a member of the choir at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. She was deeply devoted to her family and was a dedicated caregiver to her parents. Melba loved her nieces and nephews dearly and took great pride in their accomplishments. Her close-knit group of friends, lovingly known as the "Circle of Friends," brought immense joy to her life as they gathered often and traveled together, creating cherished memories. Known for her infectious smile and joyful spirit, Melba was truly the life of the party. She had a way of making people feel special, always checking in on family and friends with a phone call or a kind word. Her heart was as big as her laughter, and her generosity knew no bounds. She is survived by her devoted parents, Jose Luis Cantu and Elvira Martinez; her brothers, Jose L. Cantu, Jr. (Norma) and Jaime "Jimi" Cantu (Roselinda "Rosie"); her nephews, Joseph Christopher Cantu and Jacob Cantu (Stephanie); her niece, Amelia Tarbutton (Luke); and her seven beloved great-nieces and nephews: Lina, Adelie, Emma, Jude, Justus, Chloe, and Crosby. She also leaves behind her dear aunt, Lucila Cantu, many treasured friends and her beloved chihuahua, Lil.e, who was the light of her life. Visitation will begin Sunday, February 9, 2025 at 1:00 PM until 9:00 PM and a recitation of the holy rosary will be prayed at 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 10, 2025 departing the Rudy Garza Funeral Home at 9:30 AM for a 10:00 AM Mass of Christian burial at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Melba’s life was a beautiful example of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those she held dear. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, hard work, and deep compassion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.