Velia Bonilla, 87

Velia Velasquez Bonilla peacefully passed away on April 11, 2024, at her home in El Paso, Texas, with her family by her side. She dedicated her life to God and her family.

 Velia was born on June 16, 1936, in El Paso. She graduated in 1954 from Jefferson High School. She met her husband, Jesus “Chuy” Bonilla, as a teen; they married in 1956. Prior to becoming a full-time homemaker, she worked in various civil service positions and as an attendance clerk for Riverside High School in the 70s. Velia was a devout Catholic and was known for her delicious food, especially her beans, macaroni salad and cakes. 

 Velia was preceded in death by her husband, her parents (Albino and Francisca Velasquez), her brothers (Luis, Albino, Angel and Armando), and her sisters (Anita, Emma, Josefina and Ernestina). She is survived by her children Patricia, Christopher (Susana) and Judith; six grandchildren; four great grandchildren; sisters Rita and Gloria, and numerous nephews and nieces.

 The family is grateful for the love and support of friends and extended family, as well as the dedicated and professional support of Three Oaks Hospice.

 Please consider making a donation in Velia’s name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Services on April 22: visitation/rosary - San Jose Funeral Home East, 10 am/11 am; mass - St. Raphael Catholic Church, 12:30 pm; burial - Mount Carmel Cemetery, 2 pm.