Matilde Villanueva, born on June 2, 1937, in Shafter, peacefully departed this world on August 29 in Alpine. Her life, gracefully woven with love, family, and service, will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Matilde dedicated her career to the community, working in the cafeteria at Alpine High School and Morrison’s True Value. Beyond her professional endeavors, she was devoted to her family. Matilde’s greatest pride came from her family, including her loving husband, Gilberto Villanueva, and her treasured children: Gilbert Villanueva Jr., Marisa Mora, John Peter Villanueva, and Lupita Villanueva-Purvis, grandchildren;

Justin Villanueva, T.J. Zarate, J.P. Villanueva, G.W. Villanueva, Kasey Villanueva, Bianey Villanueva, April Villanueva, John Robert Purvis, Renee Matlock, Joseph Purvis, and Vincent Purvis, great-grandchildren; Raquel Zarate, Lennox Villanueva, Emory Villanueva, Sasha Villanueva, Andrae Villanueva, Amauri Villanueva, Anna Lea Villanueva, and Aniko Villanueva, and her sisters; Nati Chavez and Margie Urquidez. Matilde loved being with her family.

A woman of many talents, Matilde found joy in sewing and embroidery, often delighting in arts and crafts. She was a Cowboys fan and looked forward to Bingo night.

Matilde’s heart was especially devoted to her church community at Our Lady of Peace, where she volunteered her time and served gracefully. This dedication to her faith reflected her deep spirituality and commitment to giving back, which was undoubtedly one of her proudest accomplishments.

She joins her beloved parents, Pedro De La Rosa and Reyes Hernandez-De La Rosa, and her siblings, Pete, Juan, Manuel, Lupe, and Guillermo, in eternal rest.

A visitation was held on Tuesday, September 3, at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Alpine from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by a Rosary at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial took place the following day, Wednesday, September 4, at 10 a.m., also at Our Lady of Peace. Burial followed at Holy Angels Cemetery in Alpine.

Pallbearers were T.J. Zarate, G.W. Villanueva, J.P. Villanueva, Kasey Villanueva, John Robert Purvis, Joseph Purvis, and Vincent Purvis.

Matilde Villanueva leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.

Services were entrusted to Alpine Memorial Funeral Home, and gifts and condolences may be left at www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.