In Loving Memory Of

Sylvia Saenz Champion, 84, passed peacefully into Heaven to be with her Lord on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. She was surrounded by family she loved so deeply and who cherished the many years they were blessed with her here on earth. Sylvia was born on February 9, 1942 in Benavides, Texas to Pedro Saenz and Fannie Morales.

Sylvia spent many of her early years living out in the country, growing crops, and tending to livestock. She loved the peaceful quietness of country life and open spaces on the outskirts of the city. She understood hard work and rhythms of ranch life. Sylvia and her husband Charlie enjoyed their life on their ranch in Huntsville, TX where they tended to their garden, raised lived stock and hosted many family events, creating beautiful and fun memories with their grandchildren. Her career included working as a teacher’s aide and in the Texas Department of Corrections alongside her husband Charlie. Although she was hard-working, Sylvia never missed a chance to dress up and hit the town.

Sylvia had a lively spirit and loved being around people and celebrating with family and friends. Her easy-going personality created warm and fun conversations everywhere she went. Sylvia loved Tejano music and truly lived her life like a great Tejano song, enjoying every beat as her laughter reflected the vibrant sound of beautiful music. As the music played, Sylvia’s joyful spirit would fill the dance floor or even the kitchen, early in the morning as she prepared breakfast and danced away to the beats of a popular Tejano tune. We will remember Sylvia (Nana) every time we hear the accordion in an old Tejano song.

She is proceeded in death by her husband, Charlie Champion, her parents, Pedro and Fannie Saenz, and brother Pedro Saenz Jr. She was the mother to three beautiful daughters, Della (Israel) Garza, Derry (Andy) Longoria, and Debra Smithwick. She was the loving sister to her siblings, Grace Saenz, Nelda Moralez, Bobby (Janie) Saenz, and Richard Saenz. She was a loving Nana to her grandchildren whom she leaves behind, DaniElla Garza, Rae Michelle (Erik) Gomez, DeLiana Garza, Andrew (Lori) Longoria III, Mario Javier (Bianca) Quezada, Adrian (AJ) Longoria, and Aaron Longoria. She was so blessed to have ten great grandchildren, all of which had the chance enjoy Nana's loving presence, Lyla Saldana, Juliana Gomez, Aleyna Perez, Erik Gomez Jr., Rihanna Saldana, Rea Longoria, Ali Longoria, Noah Garza, Joey Longoria and Miesha June Quezada. She also leaves behind a caring and loving niece who held a special place in her heart, Nora (Ruben) Reyes, along with numerous family and friends that loved her dearly.

Sylvia will be greatly missed by many family and friends, but her legacy of love and joy will live on in all those who knew her.

Service Information

A Memorial Gathering will take place at Guardian Funeral Home on Friday, May 8th from 5pm-8pm. The Chapel Service will begin at 7pm. A Private Burial (Family Only) will be at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery on Tuesday, May 12.