It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Blanca Estela Saenz, who left this world on October 14, 2025, at the young age of seventy two. Born on May 12, 1953 in Rio Grande City, Texas, Blanca touched the lives of everyone around her in her short but impactful life.

Blanca was the cherished daughter of Salvador and Ninfa Acevedo, who preceded her in death along with her siblings: Leticia, Johnny, Arnoldo, Graciela, and Adrian Acevedo, as well as her sweet baby girl, Christina Susann Saenz.

She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Manuel Gilberto Saenz Sr., with whom she celebrated a beautiful marriage that began on June 14, 1970, in Rio Grande City, Texas. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Blanca's spirit lives on through her children: Leticia (Stephen) Hinojosa, Manuel G. Saenz Jr., Danny (Stephanie) Saenz, and Tony (Kristy) Saenz. She was the proud grandmother to Daniel, Christian Joy, Destiny, David, Joshua, Luke, Ezra, Henry, Louriza, Vanessa, Natalie, and Anthony. Her legacy will also continue through her great-grandchildren, including Shelbi Celine Molina, with three more on the way, whom she was eagerly looking forward to meeting.

Blanca's journey through life included her education at North Grammar Elementary School and high school, where she cultivated a love for learning and community. Throughout her career, she wore many hats, working as a housekeeper, childcare provider, and cafeteria helper. However, she found her true calling in nurturing and caring for the little ones at church, a role she cherished profoundly.

Blanca had a passion for baking, especially during the Christmas season. Her oatmeal, chocolate chip, peanut butter cookies, and the family-favorite Sandtart were beloved by all who tasted them. Alongside her love for baking, she had an extraordinary talent for taking care of plants, particularly miniature roses, chili petin, and her favorite orchids. Despite facing health challenges that limited her ability to engage in some of her beloved hobbies, Blanca never lost her joyful spirit, often enjoying cooking shows and finding new recipes to try.

A devoted member of El Mesias Baptist Church, Blanca was passionate about teaching children in the nursery about Jesus. Her nurturing nature extended not just to her family but also to the many children she influenced during her time at church. The Saenz family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, chaplain, counselors, and staff who visited and cared for Blanca in her final days.

Blanca is also survived by her siblings: Imelda De La Cruz, Eva (Crecencio) Siller, Salvador Acevedo Jr., Luis Acevedo, Selma Acevedo, Cynthia Acevedo, and Eduardo Acevedo, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and close family friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.

We invite all who knew and loved Blanca to join us in celebrating her life and the love she so freely gave. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched throughout her life. May she rest in eternal peace.

Public visitation will begin on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. at Guardian Funeral Home chapel with an evening service to be held at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. with a funeral service to be conducted at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery located at 8200 Old Brownsville Rd. in Corpus Christi, Texas.