Elida R. Ramirez

Born on September 2, 1934, Elida was raised at the Byrd Cattle Company’s Comanche Lake Farm, located just four miles west of Crystal City, Texas. In the late 1940s, her family moved into town, where she attended Crystal City schools and made her home for the rest of her life.

In 1953, Elida married the love of her life, Reymundo Ramirez, and together they raised four children: Gloria Sams (Scott), Reymundo Ramirez Jr., Yolanda Luna (Joe), and Frankie Ramirez.

Elida began her career as a devoted stay-at-home mother, later joining the Crystal City ISD, where she worked faithfully for 26 years before retiring in 1999.

A wonderful home cook and baker, Elida loved trying new recipes and sharing her delicious dishes with family and friends. She was known for her warmth, wisdom, and generosity, and her kitchen was often filled with laughter, conversation, and the comforting aroma of her cooking.

Elida was also an enthusiastic collector of recipes and enjoyed family gatherings where she could share her culinary creations. In her free time, she loved playing board games—especially Chinese checkers, her favorite—and even at 91, she remained sharp and competitive.

She was an avid reader, enjoyed watching movies, and stayed well-informed on current events. Elida valued meaningful conversations, whether they were about politics, religion, or family matters.

Strong-willed and courageous, Elida made a lasting impact on her community. In the 1970s, she was one of three plaintiffs who successfully challenged the constitutionality of two Texas statutes that denied healthcare for the needy. The case against the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners and the Attorney General paved the way for the establishment of a local clinic under the Zavala County Health Association, which is now known as Vida Y Salud Health Systems, Inc. Throughout her life, Elida’s unwavering faith in God guided her through challenges and inspired those around her.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 18 years, Reymundo Ramirez, her son Reymundo Ramirez Jr., and her siblings Alfredo Rodriguez, Olivia Rodriguez, and Adelaida Coronado.

Elida was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her. She is survived by eight grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of love, strength, and faith.