Maria Delia Vela Ibanez, best known as "Mrs. Dee" 90, of San Diego, Texas, passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2017. She was born in San Diego, Texas on October 2, 1926 to the late Miguel and Rosaura Vela.
Mrs. Dee was an avid seamstress and an amazing cook. She attended Texas A&I in Kingsville, Texas where she received her BA degree with honors, with a double Masters. She retired as Chief Executive Officer for Duval County Co-Op at San Diego (TX) ISD. She also served as a City Council member for the City of San Diego. Mrs. Dee moved to Bay City, Texas 10 years ago and made it her new home. She enjoyed her family visits, playing dominoes with family and friends, making tamales, listening to music, playing with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her neighbor's children.

Delia is survived by her Children: Cynthia D. Benavides (Robert), Norma B. Lopez, Sandra M. Byrd (Calvin), Yolanda Torres (Pete), Kelly D. McCain (Kenneth), and Marcos M. Ibanez,; Sisters: Dolores Epstein (Phillip) and Evita Sawyer (John); Grandchildren: Christopher McLeod, Christine Wise (Jordan), Ashley Byrd, and Keke Benavides; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Delia was preceded in death by her Parents; Husband: Adolfo Ibanez; Daughter: Gracie A. McLeod; Brother: Mike Vela; Stepson: Adolfo Ibanez, Jr. (Duffy) and Hector Ibanez.

A Memorial will be held at Garza Funeral Home in San Diego, Texas on Saturday, February 18, 2017. Visitation will be 9:00-10:00am followed by the memorial service at 10:00am. A private family burial will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.