1969-2023

Graciela Martinez-Rivas, affectionately known as “Chela” to her many family and friends, was a longtime resident of Madisonville, Texas. She was born to Anselmo and Sophia Rivas on November 23, 1969, in Rio Grande, Zacatecas, Mexico and passed away on June 15, 2024.

Chela had many passions and one that could not be ignored was her love for flowers and being outside with her roses. She also enjoyed dancing and was a true joy to be around. Chela was self-employed and possessed a very strong work ethic, making her example one worth noting. She was graced with many talents. One that stood out above the rest was her ability to craft pinatas and another was rooted in her highly sought-after tamales.

Chela moved about with a beautiful smile that was contagious to those around her. She was a kind and caring soul who was always available to help those in need. While she had many admirations, her greatest of all was her family who she loved dearly. Her time with her husband, Jaime, and the grandkids was something she cherished, as was her moments spent with her children, brothers, sisters, and the rest of her family. Family was first to Chela and she was instrumental in growing their family bond.

Graciela was preceded in death by her parents, Anselmo and Sophia Rivas; brother, Eliseo Rivas-Castillo; and one granddaughter, Sophie Martinez.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Jaime Martinez of Madisonville; her four sons, Jaime Martinez-Rivas (Arianna Lopez), Cesar Ivan Martinez-Rivas, Erick Martinez, and Oscar Martinez, all of Madisonville; and daughter, Diana Isela Ferguson (Nicholas) of Huntsville. She is also survived by four brothers, Martin, Angel, Juan, and Javier Rivas-Castillo; two sisters, Maricela Mancillas and Maria De Jesus Rivas-Castillo; six grandchildren, Jaxon, Christopher, Kylar, Tavin, Casyn, and Cooper; as well as numerous other nieces, nephews, extended family, and loving friends.

All services for Graciela were held at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Madisonville. Father Guillermo Gabriel-Maisonet officiated the service. A visitation and all-night vigil began at 5 p.m.

Thursday, June 27, 2024.

A recitation of the Rosary was held at 11 a.m.

Friday, June 28, 2024, followed by the funeral mass at 12 noon.

Pallbearers were Jaime Martinez-Rivas, Cesar Martinez-Rivas, Erick Martinez, Javier Rivas-Castillo, Nicholas Ferguson.

Final arrangements were under the direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.