Irene "Nena" Olivarez Flores

Irene (Nena) Olivarez Flores, born September 9, 1945, in Raymondville, Texas.  On November 14, 2024, at the age of 79, Irene entered into eternal rest.  She resided in the cherished company of family and friends who will remember her as a beacon of faith, love, joy, kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Irene is predeceased by her loving parents, Ignacio (Toto) Olivarez and Francisca (Panchita) Cantu Olivarez, as well as her dear daughter Elvia (Sally) Celinda Cantu and her granddaughter Victoria Pearl Rhyne.  She was also preceded in death by her siblings Maria O. Cruz, Jose Maria Olivarez, Guadalupe (Wally) Olivarez, Ignacio Olivarez, Adela Olivarez, and Theodosa Vasquez.  Irene is survived by her beloved children, Jose Guzman, Jr., and Pearl Irene Cantu, who will carry forward her legacy with love and honor.  She is also survived by her siblings, Elijio (Lee) Olivarez, Elvia O. Lara, Estela Rangel, Lupe Avalos, and Anita Spain, who will forever cherish the moments and memories shared with her.

In her youth, Irene’s home was enriched with music.  As a gifted musician, she enjoyed singing and was particularly fond of the accordion, an instrument gifted to her at the age of 16 by her mother.  Her passion for music led her to meet the legendary accordionist Ruben Vela, who offered her guidance that only fueled her passion more for the hobby that would always bring joy to so many throughout her life. 

Irene’s heart was as passionate as her talent.  Her generosity knew no bounds, and she tirelessly offered what she could to those in need, helping to raise many children as though they were her own.  A remarkable cook and baker, Irene found joy in feeding and nurturing everyone around her; her kitchen often serving as a sanctuary filled with warmth and comfort.  This was seen most clearly on game days where the family would gather to watch the Dallas Cowboys, and she wouldn’t rest until all were fed and had a smile on their faces.  She always enjoyed those gatherings with family and friends the most, eating her homemade popcorn made in her own pot, and her most favorite chocolate snacks.  

Irene’s unfaltering faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of her life.  She was a dedicated member of Palm Valley Church in Mission, Texas, where her faith fueled her soul and guided her actions, bringing comfort not just to herself but all who knew her.  Through her commitment to her faith, she strove daily to live her life to the full glory of God.  On Sunday mornings, she looked forward to listening to Dr. Olga Ramirez and Pastor Rick preach. Her endearing smile on her beautiful face, revealed God’s anointing with a peace that surpasses all understanding…a memory that will forever be instilled in our hearts.

Through her favorite scripture, we are reminded of Psalm 23, a comforting embrace of faith:  “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.  He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Surely, Irene’s cup runneth over with goodness and mercy that shall follow all who were touched by her presence & blessings, and may she dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Irene’s life was held on Tuesday, November 26, at 10 AM at Palm Valley Church (North Building) located at 1720 E. Griffin Parkway, Mission, Texas 78572.  A burial followed at the Sebastian Guadalupe Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the caring hands of Good Shepherd Funeral Home, 1157 W. Hidalgo Ave., Raymondville, Texas 78580

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