Ernestina "Tina" Gonzales Perez, age 82, passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, November 23, 2025. She was born on August 7, 1943, on Gallagher Ranch in Sandia, Texas, to Martin Gonzales and Santos Ortiz Gonzales.

Tina was the most loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, and aunt. Her beautiful smile and genuine love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She grew up in Orange Grove, Texas, and graduated from Orange Grove High
School in 1962. Known for her intelligence, sense of style, and impeccable hairdos,

Tina was active in school—serving on the annual staff, participating in F.H.A., and proudly cheering as a member of the pep squad. Her life motto, "Make new friends but keep the old; one is silver, the other is gold," reflected the warmth and loyalty she carried throughout her life.

Tina worked for many years at the local grocery store before marrying her sweetheart. She later became a devoted dental assistant, a career she held with pride until retiring in 2004. In retirement, she devoted herself to what she loved most—her family—spending countless hours baking, cooking, and creating cherished memories.

Tina's love was truly one of a kind. She found joy in laughter, in moments shared around the kitchen, and in showing kindness to everyone she encountered. Her cooking, always made with care and precision, was a heartfelt gift to those lucky enough to enjoy it, especially everyone's favorite pan de polvo. Her attention to detail—whether in the kitchen or in the way she cared for her loved ones—was nothing short of extraordinary.

Above all, Tina was adored by her family. They cherished every moment spent with her—whether gathered around her table, sharing stories, or simply enjoying her gentle presence. Her home was the heart of countless celebrations, quiet conversations, and everyday joys. The love her family held for her is immeasurable, rooted in the warmth, wisdom, and comfort she offered so freely. Those who loved her will forever carry the
memory of her laughter, her guidance, and the way she made every person feel deeply valued and loved.

Heaven shines brighter now that Tina has gone home. We take comfort in knowing she is reunited with the loved ones she has long missed, watching over her family with her radiant smile and generous spirit.

Tina is preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Santos O. Gonzales; brothers Gilbert Gonzales, Sr., Martin Gonzales, Jr., and Jose Gonzales Sr.; and sisters Ercilia Flores, Aurora Gonzales, and Lydia Gonzales.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 57 years, Robert Perez; daughter Deborah Gomez; son Carlos (Lisa) Perez; grandchildren Phillip (Jessica Rios) Gomez, Jonathan Gomez, Samantha (Robert Gutierrez) Perez, Madelyn Perez, Marc (Nadia Ramos) Gomez, and Charles (Elizabeth Silva) Hernandez; great-grandchildren Grayson Anthony Hernandez, Jonathan Daniel Gomez II, Giselle Leeann Gomez, and Alana Ernestina Gomez; sisters Odelia Sanchez, Carolina Garcia, Herminia Hernandez, and Lupe (Candelrio) Vasquez; and numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she loved
dearly.

Serving as pallbearers are Phillip Gomez, Jonathan Gomez, Marc Gomez, Charles Hernandez, Robert Gutierrez, and Adrian Vasquez.

Aaron Gomez will serve as honorary pallbearer.

A Holy rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Guardian funeral home chapel. Visitation will continue on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Guardian funeral home at 8:00 a.m. with prayers and final viewing at 9:15 a.m. Burial will follow at the Coastal Bend State Veterans cemetery at 11:00 a.m.