Maria "Ely" Elia Cortez

Maria “Ely” Elia Cortez

Maria “Ely” Elia Cortez, 79, of Bridge City, Texas, passed away on September 18, 2024, in Webster, Texas. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 27, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City.

Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on December 3, 1944, she was the daughter of Enrique Cortez and Francisca Solis Acevedo. Ely led a life rich in love, faith, and unwavering strength. She was a strong woman, calm and collected in even the most challenging times, with a big heart that welcomed everyone. Her down-to-earth spirit made her a friend to many, as she never harbored hatred towards anyone and approached life with kindness and compassion. Ely's greatest pride lay in her deep Catholic faith and spiritual life. Her home was a sanctuary not only for her family but for friends and neighbors who often found solace in her presence. She loved crafting and sharing blessings, whether it was a handmade gift or a warm meal. As we reflect on the beautiful memories shared with Ely, we remember her as a beacon of strength and warmth. Her legacy will forever live on, cherished in the stories and lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Enrique Cortez and Francisca Solis Acevedo, husband, Pablo Gomez; daughter, Mary Linda Gomez; grandson, Rudy Gomez; great granddaughter, Haylie Wilson; two brothers; and sister, Dolly Cortez. 

She is survived by her sons, Eddie Gomez, and Paul David Gomez and wife Maria; daughters, Diane Dunn and husband David, Gloria Gomez, and Corina Gomez; nineteen grandchildren; forty-three great grandchildren; six brothers; four sisters; and many other loving family and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Paul Gomez, Christopher Gomez, Matthew Gomez, Cole Willson, Foster Dunn, and Joe John Erevia, Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Eddie Gomez, David Dunn, and David Dunn III.