Avelina J. Mendoza
Avelina J. Mendoza, affectionately known to many as “Nina” and “Mommy,” passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, in Maxwell, Texas. Born on November 11, 1941, in Lamesa, Texas. She lived a life characterized by love, kindness, and selfless dedication to her family and friends.
Mommy’s journey began as the daughter of a small-town Texas family, where she learned the values of hard work and compassion that would define her for the entirety of her life. She met and married the love of her life, Felix Mendoza Jr., and together they embarked on a remarkable journey, raising a family that would grow to include eight children: Shirley Capello (Ruben), Gloria Mendoza, Felix Mendoza III, Alexander Mendoza (Debra), Norma Lewis (Shawn), Ray Mendoza (Deanna), Ed Mendoza (Kristy), and Lupe Sharp (Greg). She was also blessed with 11 grandchildren and 8 great – grandchildren. Each child was a testament to Mommy’s boundless love and nurturing spirit.
Mommy was the heart of her family, creating a home filled with warmth and laughter. She was a beacon of light, guiding and supporting her children through every stage of life. Her Christian faith was her cornerstone, providing her with strength and serenity throughout her life’s journey. She lived her beliefs through her actions, always extending a helping hand and a kind word to those around her. Her talents were many, but Mommy found particular joy in the simple pleasures of life. With hands that were rarely still, she channeled her creativity into crocheting and sewing, creating clothes that wrapped her children in love. Her garden was her sanctuary, a place where she cultivated not just plants, but peace and happiness. Roses held a special place in her heart, and she nurtured them with the same care she gave to her family. Above all, Mommy was renowned for her love of cooking. Her kitchen was the center of family gatherings, where the aroma of her famous tortillas filled the air. She believed that food was more than nourishment; it was an expression of care and community. No one ever left Mommy’s home hungry, and her generosity knew no bounds.
Avelina lived a life marked by the love she gave and the love she inspired. Her legacy is one of a loving, kind, and selfless matriarch whose memory will be cherished and celebrated by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family and the countless lives she touched with her generosity and warmth. Mommy’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Francisco Jaimes & Felicita De Leon Jaimes, her brothers Otabiano Jaimes, Jesus Jaimes, and Thomas Jaimes.
She is survived by her brothers Cruz Jaimes, Pilar Jaimes, and Robert Jaimes, and by her sisters Maria Escochea and Rosa Jaimes.
“Our family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.”
Arrangements are under the direction of Thomason Funeral Home, 2220 S. Colorado St, Lockhart, TX 78644. For more information and to sign the online registry, please visit thomasonfuneralhome.com.
