Alice De Los Santos

Alice De Los Santos, a remarkable soul who graced this world on February 6, 1924, in Lockhart, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, in Greenville. She was a powerful presence, best known as a dedicated leader among migrant workers in Arizona, and the first woman to advocate for their rights in Washington. Her tenacity and unwavering spirit made her not only a boss but an honorary figure who carried the dreams and struggles of many on her sturdy shoulders.

Alice's journey was one filled with rich memories and endless stories—some that evoked hearty laughter while others lingered with a touch of sorrow. Her simple education halted at the sixth grade, but the wisdom she gained through life was profound. Transported to school by two friends because of her petite stature, Alice embraced every moment, turning each experience into a tale to share. She possessed a light that shone brightly in the lives of those around her, characterized by her loving and caring demeanor. Her heart was as big as her passion for storytelling, and she was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Those who knew her will fondly remember her love for the thrill of the casino, where she often stayed until the early hours of the morning, sharing laughter and exhilaration with her daughters. Her playful spirit found joy in playing lottery scratch-offs and counting 18-wheelers on her trips to Walmart. Her pursuit of simplicity was evident; Alice never left her home without her bed impeccably made, her makeup flawlessly applied, and her earrings perfectly matched to her outfit. In her cherished pink chair, she took solace, sharing memories and moments with loved ones, always fostering connections around conversations that twined tales from her childhood.

As a proud mother, Alice is survived by her beloved daughters, Ester Briceno and her husband Cecil; Mary Chavarria and her husband Cruz; Janie Vallejo. She cherished her family deeply, taking immense pride in her grandchildren, who include Paul and Susan Prieto; David Prieto and Leigh Ann Gabriel Coley; Michael Prieto; Cecil Briceno Jr.; Jamie and Stephanie Briceno; Christine and Joseph Koutney; Lisa and Derrick Longoria; Denise Bishop; Eric and Brittany Chavarria; Crystal and Daniel Jimenez; Yvonne and Nick Vonsh; Zabrina and Paul Chavez Sr.; Raymond and Monica De Los Santos Jr.; Yvette and Orlando Garza; Tanya and Gabriel Marrufo. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, bringing her immeasurable joy and laughter. She left behind 43 greatgrandchildren 27 great great grandchildren and 2 great great great grandchildren .

Alice now joins her beloved deceased family: her father, Tomas Gonzalez; her mother, Salustina Martinez; her husband, Rufus De Los Santos; her children, Rufus De Los Santos Jr., Raymond De Los Santos, and Rosemary De Los Santos; her sisters, Consuelo Castaneda, Lilia Galvez, Oralia (Lale) Vargas, Dora Castro. Though she has crossed the threshold into eternity, her spirit remains a vibrant presence in the hearts of all she touched.

Alice De Los Santos leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, resilience, and laughter. Her generous heart extended to feeding every visitor, ensuring no one left her home hungry. When she moved in with her daughter, her strength was apparent as she supported her during challenging times, showcasing the profound depth of her love and commitment to family. Every morning, she cherished coffee moments with her daughter Ester, basking in the comfort of familiar routines while watching Fox News and Friends.

Alice will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she enriched. Her essence lingers in the radiant stories she shared, the love she spread, and the invaluable lessons she imparted. As we gather to honor her remarkable life, we celebrate a loving mother, a devoted grandmother, and a genuine friend whose spirit will continue to be a guiding light for all.

As we reflect upon the life of Alice De Los Santos, let us remember her as a beacon of strength, laughter, and love—a woman who not only weathered the storms of life but thrived in spite of them, and whose tales and spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.