Rita Alvarado Garza, age 63, passed away on March 1, 2026, in Poteet, Texas. She was born on August 4, 1962, in Jourdanton, Texas, to Arturo Alvarado and Angelita (Gomez) Alvarado.

Rita was a courageous and inspiring woman whose strength, kindness, and compassion touched everyone who knew her. She was an artist at heart who loved adventure, classic rock, and especially spending time with her family. Above all, being a grandmother was one of the most important and treasured roles in her life.

Rita dedicated many years to working at Jourdanton Elementary School, where she served as a P.E. coach, substitute teacher, and special needs teacher. She had a passion for helping children and made a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues.

She loved traveling to Colorado to visit her son Matthew, where she embraced the beauty of the mountains and enjoyed new adventures. Rita was fearless, kind, respectful, considerate of others, compassionate, and known for her wonderful sense of humor.

She is survived by her loving parents, Arturo and Angelita Alvarado; daughter, Marissa Garza; sons, Marty Garza (Michelle), Matthew Garza; stepsons, Shawn Sambrano, Ray Sambrano; brothers, Benjamin Gomez Sr. (Liz), Ray Alvarado (Mary), Ralph Alvarado, Arturo Alvarado (Nancy); sisters, Ester Alvarado, Angie Gomez (Juan), Mary Ann Gomez Gregory; her cherished grandchildren, Holly Garza, Connor Garza, Kinsey Garza, Colton Garza, and Weston Garza; her cousins, David Gomez, Ronnie Alvarado; best friend Becky Lopez, and numerous extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 pm at Hurley Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:30 am at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, with burial to follow at AGA Family Cemetery No. 3.

Rita's love, laughter, and adventurous spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.