Olivia Gonzales, 91, affectionately called “Lily” by her family and friends, passed away on July 7, 2008. She was born August 26, 1916, in Kingsville, Texas, at the world famous King Ranch.
Olivia and her late husband, Benny Gonzales, were long time residents of Galveston and resided in one of Texas’ Registered historical homes, The Heffron Mansion, built in 1899. She and her family were devout members of St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica. After the death of her husband, Lily moved to Houston and was a faithful member of St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church, where she was active in the St. Catherine Women’s Organization, The Super Seniors, enjoying traveling and singing, dancing, and acting in their musical reviews, even at age 87. Lily had also been an active member of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the “Guadalupanas,” for the past 60 years.
Olivia is preceded in death by her parents, Francisco and Maria Garza; daughter, Mary Ruth Holland and husband, Bobby; and grandson, Thad Holland.
She is survived by her son, Ben Gonzales, and wife, Barbara; daughters, Rosemary Green and husband, Bob; Angela Pendarvis and husband, James; grandchildren: Monte Gonzales and wife, Gina; Lisa Thomas and husband, Darrell; Cindy Ezell and husband, Matt; Brian Green and wife, Stacey; Bridget Green; Brad Green; Ashley Pendarvis and Melysa Pendarvis; and 10 great grandchildren.
Olivia’s family will receive visitors after 6:00 pm, Wednesday, July 9th, at Malloy & Son Funeral Home, 3028 Broadway, in Galveston. A rosary will be held at 7:00 pm.
Graveside service will be 11:00 am, Thursday, July 10th, at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Galveston.
Olivia’s family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff of AMED Hospice and Woodwind Lake Heath Care Center for their professional and compassionate care during Olivia’s illness.