In celebration of the life of Juanita Mata. Born in Edinburg, June 16, 1927, settled in Port Isabel and entered into eternal rest on July 8, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hipolito and Delfina Martinez, her husband, Francisco Mata, her son, Rafael Mata (Dora*), and daughter in law, Virginia Mata. She is survived by her children, Frank (Virginia*), Alfredo (Sylvia), Yolanda Causey (Cary), Ernie, Lydia and Armando, 17 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, brother Ruben Martinez and sister Elvira “Nena” Vigil. Juanita was an active member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church and was a proud volunteer in the ministry of the Guadalupanas, De Colores and the Cookie Club. She was a compassionate spirit whose passion was volunteering time to benefit those less fortunate or those struggling with loss. Having worked at PIISD for 17 years, she is fondly remembered as everyone’s favorite lunch lady, for her joy of cooking and for her love of the Tarpons. Beyond all else, Juanita, affectionately known by many as “Grandma Janie,” had an unconditional love for her children and grandchildren, who will forever treasure her wisdom, humor, generosity, patience and tenderness. Visitation will be held on Monday, July 12, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 pm. at Thomae Garza Funeral Home in San Benito, Texas. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at 11:00 am at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church located at 705 S. Longoria Street in Port Isabel, Texas Interment will follow at the Port Isabel City Cemetery in Port Isabel, Texas. All individuals are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines by socially distancing a minimum space of 6 feet apart and recommend to wear face covers or masks. (May include bandanas or sewn or cloth face coverings). You may sign the online guestbook, light a remembrance candle, or send words of comfort to the family of Juanita M. Mata at Thomaegarza.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Home and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.