Velma Cortez

Nunez

Harlingen, TX -

Beautiful Velma Cortez Nunez, 77, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness on Wednesday, October 14, 2015, at her residence in Harlingen. Velma was born September 10, 1938, in San Benito, Texas, to Elvira Dominguez Cortez and Donaciano (Chano) Cortez.

Velma is survived by her husband of 51 years, Rolando T. Nunez. Also, surviving are her brothers, Donaciano (Sonny) Cortez and Eduardo Cortez. Brothers-in-law who survive Velma are Romeo (Manuela) Nunez, Roel (Alicia) Nunez, and Rogelio (Elma) Nunez. Others who cherish Velma's life are several nieces, nephews, cousins, many former colleagues, lifelong friends, and Cristina Castano, a cherished friend of many years. Her beloved pups, considered family members, JD (Jack Daniels), Daisy, Joey, and Sofia also survive her. Velma loved them dearly and never hesitated to adopt retired police service dogs and many other pups who crossed her path.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents Elvira and Chano Cortez.

She was raised in San Benito, Texas, and graduated from San Benito High School. She was a graduate from Texas Woman's University where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and later a Masters Degree in Administration from Texas A&I in Kingsville, Texas. Her forty year professional career began in Brownsville ISD where she taught Physical Education for 2 years. She dedicated the majority of her professional career to Harlingen CISD where she devoted 38 years to this honorable profession. Children who walked school halls were all her children. Her pride as an educator took her through different paths. She taught P.E., was a Reading Specialist, Assistant Principal, and retired in 2001 as Principal of James Bowie Elementary where she proudly dedicated many years. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma and many other professional organizations, as well as civic organizations. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Harlingen.

Family, friends, colleagues, students, and J. Bowie Community best remember Velma (Mrs. Nunez) for her amiable smile, caring nature, and dedication to education. She was a memorable staff member to the Harlingen School Community. Her family and school family were always an integral part of her life.

A special note of acknowledgement is extended to San Benito and Edinburg Hospice programs. Sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all the loving and tender hands who cared for her.

Visitation will be held Friday, October 16, 2015, at 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home with a rosary to be prayed at 7 o'clock.

A funeral Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday, October 17, 2015, at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church and followed with burial service at Mont Meta Cemetery in San Benito, Texas.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Roel Nunez, Rogelio Nunez, Eluid Plata, Rico Tamayo, Eddie Cortez, and Balde Longoria.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home 1002 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)364-2444.