Fidelia R. Longoria

Fidelia R. Longoria, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025, at the remarkable age of 102. Born on April 24, 1922, in San Antonio, TX to Alfredo Rodriguez and Casimira Cabasos Rodriguez. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband Luciano “Chano” Longoria Sr., who for 68 years stood by each other’s sides. She is also preceded in death by 2 children, Luciano Longoria, Jr. and Sylvia Mendoza, and grandson, John Anthony Chacon.

She is survived by her loving children: Maria Cantu (Frank), Emilia "Millie" Gonzales (Jimmy+), Adela Starr (Dan), Erma Aguilar (George), Roy Longoria (Gloria), Rudy Longoria (Rosa), and son-in-law Richard Mendoza. Her legacy continues through them as well as 21 grandchildren, 54 great grandchildren, and 21 great-great grandchildren.

Fidelia is also survived by her siblings, Lupe Sanchez, Fermin Rodriguez, Isabel Cubriel, Margarita Tonsul, while also remembering those who have gone before: Jose Rodriguez, Nicolas Rodriguez, Pedro Rodriguez and Maria Elizondo.

Being a farmer’s wife, and living through the great depression, Fidelia, better known as “Chela,”  grew into a woman of strength, wisdom, and grace. Chela found joy in drawing houses and baskets of flowers, but always on napkins or paper towels. She also enjoyed making dresses for her granddaughters and used the leftover material to make quilts for them, as well. But it was time spent surrounded by loved ones that brought her the greatest happiness. Family gatherings were filled with laughter and warmth as she nurtured connections across generations.

As we remember Fidelia “Chela” R. Longoria today—a woman whose spirit touched so many—we celebrate a life rich in love that will forever resonate within our hearts. May we honor this extraordinary soul by cherishing our own families just as fiercely as she did hers.

Her pallbearers—Abel Cantu, Arthur Chacon, Roy Longoria Jr., Chano Longoria, Mark Esquivel, George Aguilar Jr., Lionel Aguilar, and Joshua Mendoza.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025 at Trevino Royal Oaks Funeral Chapels starting at 9am. A rosary will be recited at 11am. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 1pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Interment will follow to the Frio County Cemetery.