Tributes

Guillermina “Mina” Longoria Canales, age 91, was called home to the Lord on February 22, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. She was born on January 10, 1935, in Brownsville, Texas, to Pedro Alberto Longoria, Sr. and Guadalupe Correa Longoria. Mina was preceded in death by her beloved parents; her devoted husband, Gilberto Arnoldo Canales, Sr.; her daughter, Melissa C. Wolf; and her sisters, Graciela J. Longoria, Gloria L. Castro, and Guadalupe L. Quintana. She is survived by her loving brother, Pete A. Longoria, Jr. (affectionately referred to as "Pirita" by big sister Mina) and sister-in-law, Genevieve Longoria; her daughter, Suzette Aurora Canales; her son, Gilberto Arnoldo Canales, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Donna Provenzano Canales; her granddaughters (who absolutely adore their grandma), Paula Guillermina Canales and Jennifer Marie Canales; her brother-in-law, Adrian Castro; special family member “by choice,” Sarah “Sarita” Marie Hines and Sarah’s son, Memphis Edward Hines; as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. Mina was a graduate of Texas Woman’s University and dedicated decades of her life to teaching third-grade math in the San Antonio Independent School District. She was a devoted educator who believed deeply in the power of learning. At a time when few Hispanic women pursued higher education, Mina led by example, demonstrating through determination and commitment what could be achieved academically. She inspired generations of students not only in mathematics, but in confidence and perseverance. Above all, Mina loved her family. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and delicious aromas from her kitchen. She found joy in cooking, gardening, exercising, playing bunco, and trying her luck on slot machines during fun-filled trips to Las Vegas with family and friends. For decades, she faithfully exercised with her cherished group of lady “Jazz Friends" (also known as "Las Locas Chicas" when being super silly) sharing in Jazzercise and LA Fitness classes, often followed by celebratory breakfast tacos and coffee at Bill Miller BBQ. The holidays were especially dear to Mina. She would spend weeks baking more than 21 varieties of Christmas cookies for her granddaughters’ teachers. And, with help from family and friends, Mina would make dozens of homemade tamales to share with those she loved. Her generosity, energy, and joyful spirit made every celebration brighter. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the loving and supportive staff at Arden Courts Memory Care and Concha Hearts Hospice. Their compassionate devotion and exceptional care allowed Mina’s family and friends to continue enjoying precious time with her during the last three and a half years of her journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Mina’s legacy is one of faith, strength, service, and unconditional love. She will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her students, and her community. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you plant a tree in Mina’s memory—a living tribute to a life that nurtured and uplifted so many. Funeral services are going to be postponed at this time. Please contact Donna Canales for further updates 210-683-1922 https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative

Tributes

Guillermina "Mina" Longoria Canales

January 10, 1935 - February 22, 2026