Elena Reyes Gonzalvo

Elena R. Gonzalvo, 96, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of November 24, 2019 in the 1960/Cypress area where she resided for the last 2 years of her life.  She was born in Manila, Philippines where she went to school and later worked.  Elena married Alfredo L. Gonzalvo in May 15, 1948, and gave birth to Eduardo and Edgardo.  She has three grandchildren, E. Aris Gonzalvo (Carolyn Bautista), Alarise L. Gonzalvo and Jules Gonzalvo.  Elena also has a great grandson, Julian A. Bautista-Gonzalvo. 

Affectionately known as Mommy Nena, she was responsible for raising all her grandkids.  The longest of whom was Aris, from birth until the age of 10 in Manila Philippines while his parents were overseas.  She left her job in City Hall in order to care for her grandson.  In 1990, she would repeat by leaving the Philippines to take care of her younger grandchildren, Alarise and Jules in Houston, TX.

Friends and family revered Mommy Nena’s talents as a home chef.  Her hospitality was enjoyed by many people.  Elena ensured that no one left her home hungry.  She only stopped cooking at the age of 92.

Her smile lights up the room and her painfully quiet demeanor yields only to a sense of humor that can be wicked to only those that are close to her.  She is a true Rockets fan and can also be their harshest critic.  This however didn’t stop her from admiring Lebron James.  She didn’t let Alzheimer’s disease affect her sharp as a tack wit until the very end.  She defied all odds in life and in death, a true testament to her strength.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her first born son.  Also preceding her are 2 brothers and 1 sister.  She is survived by her son, grandchildren and great grandson along with numerous nieces and nephews in the Philippines. 

Elena was interred in Memorial Oaks Cemetery in a private ceremony with only immediate family present per her wishes.

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