Emma Hinojosa

Emma L. Hinojosa was born on October 19, 1931, to the late Hilario Lopez, Sr. and Georgia Saldana Lopez in Brooks County, Falfurrias, Texas. She passed away peacefully of natural causes on February 21, 2025, at the age of 93 in Nueces County, Corpus Christi, Texas, surrounded by her loving daughters, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Eva L. Gonzalez; her brothers, Hilario Lopez Jr., Adan Lopez, Ricardo Lopez, and Noe Lopez; her beloved son, Gilberto Collin Jr.; her husband, Armando Hinojosa; and her high school sweetheart, ex-husband, and father of her children, Gilberto Collin Sr.

She is survived by her devoted daughters: Cynthia C. Contreras, Laura Carrales (Rene), and Georgina Eckhardt (David). She leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Jacob Price Berryman, Stacey Carrales, Celeste M. Contreras, Rafael Carrales, Sergio Carrales, Mitch Eckhardt (Alethea), Ricky Contreras (Hallie), and Gilbert James Eckhardt. Emma was also blessed with four great-grandsons, five great-granddaughters, and one great-great-grandson.

Emma's life was filled with passion, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to others. As a young and naturally gifted woman, she shared her talents generously. A master seamstress, she designed and crafted countless garments, including wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, formal prom dresses, debutante ball gowns, and traditional Charro Days Parade outfits. While living in Brownsville, she worked at Darcey’s, a prestigious high-end dress shop, perfecting her craft.

In addition to her talents as a seamstress, Emma was an avid painter and artist, finding joy in expressing herself through various creative mediums. Her artwork, as reflected her vibrant spirit and deep appreciation for beauty.

As the youngest child, Emma lovingly took care of her elderly mother, demonstrating a deep sense of devotion and responsibility to her family. Her nurturing nature extended beyond her loved ones into her lifelong advocacy and charitable work.

Her deep commitment to community service led her to work as a neighborhood services aide in Kingsville, where she became immersed in the social changes of her time. She expanded her reach and impact by serving as an aide to a State Senator for Texas, where she attentively addressed the concerns of constituents and sought solutions to their challenges. Emma later worked as a social worker for the Kingsville Housing Authority, positively influencing the lives of children, parents, and the elderly. Her dedication earned her the Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America, the highest recognition for volunteers.

Emma’s expertise and leadership extended into housing and urban development. She became an esteemed expert and trainer in the field, managing multiple HUD-supported housing communities until her retirement.

A passionate advocate for her community, Emma was politically active, serving on the Kingsville Independent School District Board and even running for Kleberg County Commissioner, a race she narrowly lost. Her volunteer work was vast and impactful—she assisted hurricane victims, advocated for abused mothers and women in need of healthcare while she served as Chair of the local Planned Parenthood Association. She also worked closely with Catholic churches, offering unwavering support to her clients and all congregations.

Emma was also a longtime supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, dedicating herself to causes that helped children in need. Her generosity and spirit were evident in all aspects of her life.

Emma also had a deep love for family gatherings and celebrations. She enjoyed hosting and attending parties, where she brought people together with her warmth, hospitality, and infectious joy. Her home was often filled with laughter, delicious food, and the love of family and friends.

Emma's compassionate spirit and dedication to service left a lasting legacy. Her kindness, generosity, and determination enriched the lives of countless individuals. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by her family, friends, and the community she loved and served so selflessly.