Estela Saenz, affectionately known as “Amá,” was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was a reflection of faith, love, and service to others. She was born on October 2, 1946, in the Higginbotham Community of Gaines County, Texas, to E.F. and Anita Martinez.
On August 24, 1974, Estela married the love of her life, Lee C. Saenz, Sr., at Templo Sinai an Assembly of God Church in Brownfield, Texas. Their marriage was built on faith, love, and an unbreakable bond that carried them through life’s joys and challenges. Though Lee preceded her in death, their love was never diminished. Now, they are reunited once again, together in the presence of their Lord and Savior.
Estela was a prayer warrior, dedicating long evening hours to praying for her family, friends, and those in need. Her love for the Lord and Savior was unwavering, and she found great joy and peace in reading the Bible daily. She lived a life of service, always putting others before herself and ensuring that those around her felt cared for and loved.
A woman of many talents, Estela Loved to Sing! She also had a natural gift for drawing, often using her creativity to organize her thoughts on paper, calendars, and notes. She enjoyed tending to her potted plants, and her love for family was especially evident in the kitchen, where she delighted her grandchildren with her homemade Mexican cinnamon sugar cookies aka “Hojarascas”. She delighted in her Cherry Cokes, Hershey’s Almond Bars and Big Red floats. These are memories the family will cherish forever.
She was a pillar of strength and wisdom, offering guidance, love, and prayers that became a source of comfort for her family. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and devotion will continue through the lives of those she leaves behind.
Estela is survived by her children, Pete Saenz (Angie), Lee Saenz, Jr. (Lett), and Noe Saenz (Lauren); grandchildren, Alexis Saenz (Octavio II), JT Saenz (Valerie), Bobo Saenz (Hannah), Abigail Trevino (Ryan), Morgan Saenz, Jeremiah Saenz, Mason Saenz, Meagon Saenz, Elliott Saenz, and KJ Saenz; and great-grandchildren, Camila Frausto, Kaycen Saenz, Shelbie Saenz, Sophia Saenz, Azariah Saenz, Melody Saenz, Harmony Saenz, Violet Saenz, Olivia Trevino, and Noah Trevino. She is also survived by her siblings, Joe Martinez (Irene), Simon Martinez (Virginia), and Rosa Norman.
Though Estela’s physical presence will be deeply missed, the love, faith, and kindness she poured into the lives of those around her will continue to shine brightly. Her unwavering spirit, servant’s heart, and legacy of prayer will live on through her family and all who were blessed to know her. Now, as she rests in eternal peace, she is joyfully reunited with Lee, hand in hand once more, watching over those they love.
Rest in the eternal peace of God, Amá. Your love and faith will never be forgotten.
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