Maria Ramirez Villanueva, a lifelong resident of Kenedy, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, Thursday, June 13, 2013, in the Northeast Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, Texas at the age of 68 years, 11 months and 27 days.

Maria was born, October 17, 1944 in Kenedy, Texas, the daughter of Felipe Ramirez and Christina Contreras Ramirez. She worked as a CNA for Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital and attended Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

Maria is survived by her children, Norma J. Villanueva of Karnes City, Rosie Garza and husband Pablo of San Antonio, Candido Villanueva and wife Emma of New Branfuels and John Henry Villanueva and wife Marina of Kenedy; her sisters, Dominga Sanchez, Elida Contreras and Agapita Flores and her brothers Timothy Sanchez, Jose Ramirez,
Joel Contreras and Fabian Contreras. Maria is also survived by her 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Ms. Villanueva is preceded in death by her parents, Felipe and Christina Ramirez.

Visitation will be held, Friday, June 14, 2013, in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel and a rosary will be recited Friday at 7:30 P.M., in the funeral home chapel. Funeral mass will be celebrated, 11:00 A.M., Saturday, June 15, 2013, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church with Rev. Norbert Herman officiating. Interment will follow in the Loma Alta Cemetery.