Lupe Castillo-Quintanilla

Lupe Quintanilla, née Castillo, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas, at the age of 79. Born on December 12, 1946, in Patricia, Texas, Lupe’s life was a testament to resilience, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Lupe graduated from Levelland High School and soon after began her remarkable career at Craftsman Printers. Over more than 3 decades with the company, she became a steadfast presence and a valued colleague. Her dedication to her work was matched only by her commitment to those around her.

A woman of deep faith, Lupe was a devoted Catholic whose beliefs guided her throughout her life. She found joy in worship and drew strength from her spiritual community. Her faith was especially evident in the courage and grace with which she faced life’s challenges.

Lupe’s love for music was a defining part of who she was. She played both the clarinet and piano with skill and passion and lent her beautiful voice to the Lubbock Civic Choral. Whether performing or simply listening to music at home, she found comfort and happiness in melody and song. Lupe was also a member of the Alpha Phi Beta Sorority, chapter of Beta Sigma Phi and in 1989-1990 she was president of her chapter. She had wonderful times with her sorority sisters through the years. Lupe was a member of a bunko group and spent time and had many laughs with the girls she affectionately called the "bunko girls".

Her interests were as varied as they were vibrant. Lupe enjoyed bowling with friends, traveling to new places, reading books that sparked her imagination, and spending time outdoors—especially soaking up the sun in her beloved backyard. These moments brought her peace and allowed her to reflect on the blessings in her life.

Family was always at the heart of everything Lupe did. She shared a loving marriage with Fermin Quintanilla of 56 years, who stood by her side through every season of life. Together they raised two sons—Steve Quintanilla and Robert Quintanilla—who were not only her proudest achievements but also the recipients of her constant guidance and unconditional support. Lupe cherished every moment spent with Steve’s wife Jackie Quintanilla, their daughter Ashley Pinson, and Ashley’s daughter Parker Mae Mitchell - the newest joy in Lupe’s life as a great-grandmother.

Lupe’s nurturing spirit extended beyond immediate family; she was a source of comfort and encouragement to friends and neighbors alike. Her easygoing nature made everyone feel welcome in her presence. Those who knew Lupe remember her as loving, courageous, strong yet gentle—a woman whose laughter could brighten any room.

One of Lupe’s most inspiring chapters came later in life when she bravely battled breast cancer. Just one week before her passing, she received the joyful news that she was cancer free—a testament to both modern medicine and Lupe’s indomitable spirit.

She is preceded in death by her mother Tomasa Castillo, her father Catarino Castillo, brothers, Domingo Castillo, Nato Castillo, John Castillo and Pedro Castillo but leaves behind a legacy carried forward by all who loved her.

A funeral mass honoring Lupe Quintanilla’s life will be held at Combest Funeral Home located at 2202 Broadway Street Lubbock, TX 79401 on Friday February 27, 2026 at 11am. Reception to follow.