Simona Naranjo Ruiz

Simona Naranjo Ruiz, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister, passed away on January 23, 2024, at the Windsor Calallen Nursing Home in Calallen, TX. She was surrounded by her loving children during her final moments. Simona leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to her family.

Born on September 24, 1928, in Falfurrias, TX, Simona was the daughter of Abelino and Isabel Cortez. She grew up alongside her siblings forming strong bonds that would last a lifetime. Simona's proudest accomplishments revolved around her family. Beyond her role as a devoted mother and grandmother, Simona dedicated herself to various jobs within her community. As a custodian for the school district and other local positions, she showed her commitment to service. Simona's hard work and dedication were admired by all who knew her.

Simona was preceded in death by husbands Pedro Naranjo Sr., and Alfredo Ruiz, sons Ray Naranjo and infant son Pete Naranjo, Jr., parents Abelino and Isabel Cortez, and siblings Rosa Flores, Lydia Longoria, and Pedro Cortez, Sr., and grandchildren JoAnn C. Naranjo and Michael Ray Naranjo.

Among those left to cherish Simona's memory are her children: Erma N. Weed (C.J.) of Friendswood, Janie N. Cordero, Joe Naranjo, Ruben Naranjo (Cica), and Daniel Naranjo (Rosie) of Kingsville, Margie N. Gomez of Sinton, Pete Naranjo (Tammie) and Thelma McIllwain (Tammy) of Riviera, and Antonio Naranjo (Sonia) of Ricardo, along with Simona's 29 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren, as well as many other relatives and friends in Riviera, Kingsville, and Sinton, Texas. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones and took pride in watching them grow. Simona's warm embrace will be deeply missed by each one of them.

To honor Simona's life and her impact on those around her, a visitation which will be held at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, TX, on January 28, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM with a rosary to be held at 7:00 PM. This will provide an opportunity for friends and family to pay their respects. On January 29, 2024 at 10:00 AM, a Mass celebrating Simona's life will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church located on S 2nd St in Riviera, TX. After the Mass service has concluded, Simona will be laid to rest at Riviera Cemetery.

Simona Naranjo Ruiz will forever be remembered for her loving nature and unwavering devotion to her family. Her warm smile and nurturing presence touched the lives of all who knew her. May her soul rest in eternal peace as her memory lives on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.