Maria Emma DeLeon

Maria Emma DeLeon, born October 29, 1947, in Mexico, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas, surrounded by her beloved family.

At the age of thirteen, Maria and her family made a pivotal move from their homeland to a suburb of Floydada, Texas, laying the foundation for a life marked by unwavering commitment, resilience, and love. It was in Floydada that Maria met the love of her life, Juan Ramon DeLeon. Their hearts intertwined swiftly, and they were married just three weeks later in 1965—a true testament to the depth of their love and affection.

Together, Maria and Juan journeyed through life’s many seasons, eventually settling in Ralls, TX in 1975, where they devoted themselves to raising a beautiful family rooted in faith, love, and hard work.

Maria began working at a young age as a farmhand. Demonstrating a tireless work ethic that would define her throughout her life. While she worked outside the home when needed, it was in her role as a devoted homemaker and mother that she truly flourished. Maria poured her heart into caring for her family, nurturing her children with strength, warmth, and unconditional love.

Faith played a central role in Maria’s life. She was a faithful member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church for more than 40 years and an active member of the Guadalupanas, where she joyfully volunteered much of her time in service to her church and community. Her devotion to God and Our Lady of Guadalupe guided her daily life and inspired those around her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband, Juan DeLeon of Ralls; her children: Maria Esperanza Rosalez, Janie (Ronnie) Gonzalez, Dianna (Diopoldo) Cazares, Erma DeLeon, and Jesus (Minerva) DeLeon; 23 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Marcos Contreras, Maria Ruiz, Rosa Borjon, Juan Cruz Contreras, Gregorio Contreras, Reinaldo Contreras, Jose Guadalupe Contreras, Ricardo Contreras, and Javier Contreras.

Maria was preceded in death by two children, Veronica DeLeon in 2003 and Juan DeLeon Jr. in 2021; her siblings Antonio, Juanito, Roberto Contreras, and Elvira Thayne; one son-in-law, Jerry Rey in 2025; and two grandchildren, Apolonia Galaxy DeLeon and Elizabeth Leal.

Visitation will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at The Venue on Broadway, located at 2202 Broadway in Lubbock, with the Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at St. Michael Catholic Church in Ralls, with burial to follow at Ralls Cemetery.

Special thanks to Minerva DeLeon, Jessica Zamarripa, and Maria Rozales. Heartfelt gratitude to Beloved, Veronica, and Penelope for their loving sacrifice and care for their grandmother.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”

— Matthew 25:23