Josefa S. Cantu

Our beloved Mother, Josefa Saenz Cantu, known to many as “Pepa”, went home to be with our Lord passing away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at the age of 97. She was born in Concepcion, Texas on January 5,1929 to her parents Manuel and Rosa Saenz. With Pepa’s departure, we remember a long life well lived with immense love and caring for family.
 
Pepa grew up on her family ranch with her parents and 5 brothers. There she learned the traits of being an excellent homemaker from her mom. Her father, uncle and brothers taught her how to care for animals, garden and do ranch work. In her early teen years, she cared for and babysat many children. She married the love of her life, Roberto Cantu, and together they had 2 children. Together they continued with their ranching business and provided a beautiful homestead for their family. Her faith and family were the center of her world.
 
Before Roberto’s passing, Pepa and Roberto enjoyed visiting gambling venues and when it became difficult for them to travel alone their children assisted. After Roberto’s passing, Pepa spent her time viewing the deer and nature from the back porch and watching TV. “The Price is Right” was her favorite game show and she made it a point to make sure the TV was on the correct channel. Pepa was known for being an excellent cook and baker and making it from scratch. She would travel every Sunday for many years to assist her mom in preparing amazing meals for all those who visited after working the land. Her corn tamales, pan de campo, tortillas and her sweet desserts were loved by all. “Pepa” was blessed with a beautiful kind heart that left a lasting mark on those that knew her. She genuinely loved everyone and showed her love by giving tight hugs. She always would say, in perfect English, “I love you” when saying her goodbyes. Pepa’s 97 years of life has left those who loved her with many precious memories.
 
Josefa is survived by her daughter, Rosa Cantu Williams and her son Roberto Cantu Jr.
(Loretta), her granddaughter Adriana Williams (Devin), her great grandchildren Amaya, Aaliyah, RioShawn and Landen Moore, her granddaughter Samantha Salinas (Daniel) and her great grandson Adam Salinas. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who adored her dearly.
 
Josefa is preceded in death by her parents Manuel and Rosa Saenz, her husband Roberto
Cantu, her brothers and their wives–Amando and Maria Saenz, Horacio and Herminia Saenz, Catarino and Estella Saenz, Baldemar and Gloria Saenz, and Anselmo (Marina) Saenz.
 
The family expresses its sincere gratitude to the caring nurses, chaplain and staff from Summit Hospice who provided the support needed for our mother.
 
Active Pallbearers are Roberto Cantu Jr., Harold Saenz, Tony Cantu, Joe Salinas Jr., Humberto Soliz and Daniel Salinas.
 
Visitation is on Saturday, April 18, at 8:30 am at Mauro P. Garcia Funeral Home in San Diego, Texas. Rosary will be recited at 10:30 at Santa Rosa de Lima Catholic Church in Benavides, Texas. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00. Burial will be at Salinas Cemetery in Concepcion.

Mauro P. Garcia Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.