Eleanor Ann Covell Gardea

Eleanor Ann Covell Gardea, much loved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, went out with a bang on Mexican Independence Day, which we know her husband would love!

Eleanor was born on November 9, 1930, in Galveston, Texas. Eleanor spoke fondly of growing up on the island during its heyday and carried those memories with her throughout her life.

She met her husband, Raymundo Gardea, while he was studying at the Medical School in Galveston. Ray wanted to make sure Eleanor could dance before asking her out. He arranged to meet her and a friend at a soda shop, watching her as she took a spin around the floor with her friend. Eleanor was light on her feet – and the rest is history.

After marrying, she moved to El Paso and became deeply involved in the community. She wore many hats, including volunteering for Meals on Wheels, as a Room Mother for each of her kids, and as a member and President of the PTA at Mesita and EPHS as well as the Woman’s Auxiliary of the El Paso County Medical Association.

Eleanor was also a member of the St. Patrick’s Altar Society and the Catholic Daughters of America. As a member of the Women’s Democratic Caucus, she had the opportunity to greet President Lyndon B. Johnson when he visited El Paso. She served on the boards of the Sunshine Day Nursery in El Segundo Barrio, the United Way, and the El Paso Community Foundation.

Momma enjoyed life, music, dancing, and a delicious dessert. Above all, she delighted in the company of her family.

She leaves her beloved children Ann (Dale) Ragle, Elena (Price) Stanley, Louise (Robert) Vandertulip, Raymond (Patricia) Gardea, and Margaret (Eduardo) Servin; 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; and dear friend Jovita Ramirez.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ray Gardea; parents Milton and Alma Covell; siblings Milton Covell, Mary Margaret Peck, and Nora Inglish; and grandson, Josiah Vandertulip.

We know there is dancing in heaven as Momma reunites with Daddy, her family, and beloved friends, Peggy Palafox and Mary Alice Prendergast.

The Gardea family also wishes to extend our deepest gratitude to her cherished caretaker and companion, Martha Loya. We also want to thank Nora Ramirez and Imelda Berthand for assisting our mother with loving care. The Green Mountain Hospice Team including Astrid, Jerry, Mary Lou, and especially Dr. Nahid Vandshekari provided Momma with outstanding medical care and love. We thank them.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ray and Eleanor Gardea Fund at the El Paso Community Foundation or the charity of your choice are appreciated.