Maria Yolanda Thomas' Obituary
Maria Yolanda Thomas
May 12, 1946 – November 18, 2025
Maria Yolanda Thomas was born on May 12, 1946, in Raymondville, Texas, to her loving parents, Camilo Sosa Rodriguez and Esther Zamorano Rodriguez. Raised in a warm and devoted family, Maria carried with her the values of kindness, resilience, and deep compassion that shaped her life and the lives of those around her.
Maria married T.Y. Thomas Jr., with whom she built a strong and loving family. Together they raised two children—T.Y. Thomas III and Ann Marie Thomas—who remained her greatest pride and joy.
For 33 years, Maria dedicated herself to the Northside Independent School District, where she worked with unwavering commitment. Her loyalty, work ethic, and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on colleagues and students alike.
Maria had a gift for making a house a home. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, cooking, caring for her animals, and spending cherished time with her family—especially her grandbabies, who were the light of her life. Her nurturing heart and joyful presence created countless memories that her loved ones will carry forever.
She was a proud grandmother to Amanda Marie Esparza, David Robert Andrade Jr, T.Y. Thomas IV, Marie Lorene Andrade, Cassandra Amber Thomas, and Analise Marie Balderas, each of whom brought her immeasurable happiness. Her love extended even further to her great-grandchildren: Ariana Nicole Esparza, Alaina Marie Esparza, Madelyn Elise Andrade, Tyler Aiden Thomas, Noah Feliciano Esparza, Sophia Marie Roston, Valentina Rae Roston, and Scarlett Reign Elliot.
Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Camilo Sosa Rodriguez and Esther Zamorano Rodriguez, and her niece, Angie P. Rodriguez. She is survived by her spouse, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many other family members who will forever cherish her memory.
A Visitation will be held Monday, November 24, 2025 from 1:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home, Chapel of Serenity, a Rosary will take place at 7:00 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial is set for 10:00 A.M, Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church., 408 Fort Clark Rd.
Interment to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.
Maria Yolanda Thomas will be remembered for her gentle strength, her generous heart, and the love she poured into everyone she met. Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched with warmth and grace.
What’s your fondest memory of Maria?
What’s a lesson you learned from Maria?
Share a story where Maria's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Maria you’ll never forget.
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