Antonia C. Vela

Antonia Vela, beloved matriarch of the Vela family and known to all as “Grandma Vela”, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 in her home on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, in Kerrville, Texas. She gained her angel wings, at 12:32pm, while surrounded by her loving family, a legacy that spans many generations. Born on March 15, 1934, in Taft, Texas, she was the daughter of Damacio and Maria Camarillo. Antonia was preceded in death by both her parents, her spouse, Guadalupe “Grandpa” Vela, Sr., and her son, Benito Vela.

Antonia was a beloved mother and survived by her children, Anna Vela, Guadalupe Vela (Cindy), Sandra Hernandez (Jaime), Antonio Vela (Olivia), Brenda Ortegon (Alfredo), Enrique Vela (Kellie), Debra Silva (Abel), Barbara Vela, Robert Vela (Christine), Belinda Valero (Ray). She cherished her 37 grandchildren, 91 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren. She had a special bond with each of them and made sure that they knew exactly how much she loved them. Grandma Vela will also be remembered by her many nieces and nephews, who loved her dearly. 

Working in the cotton fields in Arkansas, as a young woman, is where she met Guadalupe. At a tender age of 19, they were joined in holy matrimony in 1953. She continued working in the fields, but shortly after marriage they embarked on a journey that would shape the future of their family’s proud heritage. Her dedication and unwavering commitment to their children were evident in every aspect of her life, a strong foundation that created an extremely tight-knit family tree.

They eventually ended up in Kerrville, Texas, in 1966, where she made the Vela family’s forever home, referred to so many as “Velaville”. Velaville will always be a place where the entire family gathers, not just on holidays. From early on the streets were filled with children playing and making memories that would last a lifetime. This was a place of peace and safety, and at the heart of it all was Grandma Vela. 

Her favorite hobby was thrift shopping. She decided to turn this hobby into a small business opportunity, becoming a vendor at the FJB Lumberyard. She successfully sold items to contribute to her household income for over 10 years. Antonia’s other hobbies included sewing and cooking for her family. There were always fresh homemade tortillas in her kitchen. She made sure there was plenty of food for her family, as well as any guests that would stop by for a visit. Her heart poured out love through her acts of service. She made sure everyone was well fed before walking out of her home. She succeeded in making those around her feel like they were a part of her family. 

Antonia was a member of Maranatha Christian Center for over 40 years. For as far back as her children can remember, she exemplified the image of a God-fearing, faithful prayer warrior. Friends and family could go to her at any time of day to ask for her to pray over and with them. Without hesitation, she would fulfill the request because she had complete and steadfast belief in her God’s ability to handle every situation. Towards the end of her time, even when she was not physically feeling her best, she was still a loyal attendant of services.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, July 15, 2024 at the Maranatha Christian Center, 2915 Legion Dr., Kerrville, Texas with Pastor Joel DeLeon officiating. 

Visitation with the family will be held 6-8:00 PM, Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Kerrville Funeral Home.  Saturday, 10:00 AM -  5:00 PM will be open for calling hours. 

On behalf of the entire Vela family, we would like to say Thank You to all the physicians and nurses that had any part in her care. Also, a very special Thank You to Embrace Hospice and her nurse, Jessica, whom she loved dearly for the in-home care she provided to ensure Grandma Vela’s quality of life was as full as it could be. 

Services with integrity, pride, and honor are under the direction of Kerrville Funeral Home. (830) 895-5111