Maria "Celia" Wilkinson

Maria "Celia" Wilkinson 63 of Santa Elena Texas entered into eternal peace on November 17, 2017 surrounded by her husband, daughter and 2 sisters. Celia was born in Rio Grande City on February 21,1954.

Celia is proceeded in death by her father Conrado Rivas Sr and niece Daniela Villarreal. Celia is survived by her mother Maria Rivas, husband Jim Wilkinson, son Gabriel David Luna, daughter Velma Luna-Burchfield (Bill Burchfield), granddaughter Gloria Maria Luna, sisters Elena Smith,Yolanda Rivas-Perez, Teresa Rich, Diana Lopez, Nilda Grant and Idalia Villarreal brothers Conrado Rivas Jr, Jorge Rivas, Danny Rivas, Mauricio Rivas, Alonso Rivas, Jaime Rivas and Wenceslado Rivas, stepdaughters Ami Cook and Tami Smith of Indiana, 5 step grandchildren and 5 step great-grandchildren of Indiana.

Celia battled cancer for 22 long years. But her positive attitude and contagious smile became and inspiration of hope to all around her. She had a passion for life that surpassed any other we'd ever seen. Celia left a lasting impression to all she met. She loved spending time with her family and friends. Constantly reminding us of what a true blessing she was to all. Celia was our biggest hero and cheerleader. While her parting has been difficult for us all. We now know she is no longer in pain and is basking in the Glory. Celia has taken a piece of our hearts with her. But we look forward to the day that we are reunited with her once again.
We will remember her smile forever.

Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at the Hernandez Funeral Home, LLC, 701 E. Eisenhower Street, Rio Grande City, Texas.  Funeral Services will follow at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers her daughter is asking for donations to be made in honor to the the American Cancer Society of the Rio Grande Valley.

Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at Estates of Serenity, Marion, Indiana.

Local arrangements entrusted to Raven-Choate Funeral Home, 1202 Kem Road, Marion, Indiana.

Online condolences may be made at www.ravenchoate.com