NELDA GARCIA Obituary

NELDA LILIA GARCIA Ben Bolt, TX - Nelda Lilia Garcia, age 89, entered eternal rest on February 1, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas. Born on May 26, 1935, in Alice, Texas, she was the daughter of Alfredo and Olaya Garcia. Nelda's early years were marked by a strong commitment to her education, and she proudly graduated from Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco High School on May 20, 1953. Her academic journey continued at The University of Texas, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, graduating on August 30, 1957. Driven by her passion for education and health, she furthered her studies at the same university, ultimately obtaining her master's degree in physical and health education on June 3, 1961. Nelda began her professional career as a coach at the Premont Independent School District from 1958 to 1960, where she inspired countless young athletes. Her coaching journey took her to California, where she continued to make a significant impact in the world of sports. In 1975, she made the heartfelt decision to return home, taking over her father's business and becoming a dedicated rancher. Her contributions to the field were recognized in an interview with Telemundo, where she was celebrated as one of just two Hispanic female ranchers in Texas. Nelda's achievements did not go unnoticed; she was appointed by Texas Governor Rick Perry to the Soil and Water Conservation Board for the State. She was also featured in Texas Monthly magazine and earned a distinguished place in Who's Who. On September 26, 2008, Nelda served as the chairperson on the Board of Directors for Crime Stoppers, demonstrating her dedication to community safety and support. One of Nelda's cherished accomplishments was her role as one of the founders of Fiesta Amistad in Ben Bolt. She remained an active member for 18 years, contributing to the festival's success, which took place in the Ben Bolt Plazaan area generously donated by her family to Jim Wells County. Nelda Lilia Garcia leaves behind a rich legacy of service, dedication, and love for her community. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfredo and Olaya Garcia. She is survived by her lifetime partner of nearly 45 years, JoAnn Frisco of Corpus Christi; godson, John Frisco (Monica) of Corpus Christi; five grandchildren, Daniel Trevino, Clarissa Trevino, Nicole Frisco, Sarah Trevino, and John Ryan Frisco. Visitation will be held Monday, February 10, 2025 beginning at 5 p.m. at Rosas Funeral Home with a holy rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. that evening. A funeral mass will be celebrated Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church. Burial to follow at Las Calaveras Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Higinio Garcia, Eddie Garcia, Gabriel Ramirez, Tomas Zamorano, Robert Zamorano, and Noel Garcia. Funeral arrangements entrusted with ROSAS FUNERAL HOME, INC