Teresa "Tere" Menchaca

Teresa "Tere" Menchaca, a cherished soul and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, was called Home to be with the Lord on July 28, 2025, in Seguin, Texas, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 23, 1964, in Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico, Tere embraced life with an exuberance that brightened the lives of everyone she encountered.

As one of the beloved founders of the religious dance group Danza Guadalupana, Tere poured her heart and soul into every step, every prayer, and every beat of the drum. Through every prayer recited she brought her deep love, faith, culture, and religion to life. These sacred moments were more than just performances—they were acts of worship, woven with joy, reverence, and a profound connection to her religion and roots. Tere’s spirit will continue to foster faith and joy as they continue her legacy within the Danza Guadalupana.

Tere embodied kindness and generosity. She was always willing to lend a helping hand, putting the needs of others before her own. Her nurturing spirit and selflessness reflected a depth of caring that left a profound impact on family, friends, and her community. She cultivated relationships built on love, loyalty, and the warmth of her vibrant personality.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 43 years, Arturo Menchaca, who stood as her steadfast partner throughout their journey together. Tere's legacy lives on in her children: Susana Rodriguez (Alex), Roxana Menchaca (Tony), Jessica Menchaca, and Oscar Arturo Menchaca (Alexis), each of whom carries forward the values of love, commitment, and passion instilled by their mother. Her grandchildren—Julio Cesar Navarro Jr. (Heather), Briana Lee Rodriguez, Ivan "Gio" Navarro, Oscar Arturo Menchaca Jr., Serenity "Rosita" Menchaca, Adaline Janelle Menchaca, Alijaih Jennings, Landren Jennings, and Ace Rene Menchaca—were the light of her life, and she adored every moment shared with them.

Tere is also survived by her mother, Cesaria "Challa" Tavira, and her siblings: Tomasa Noriega (Roman), Ernesto Polendo, Gloria Guerra (Enrique), and Rosie Polendo (Oscar). She leaves behind a brother-in-law, Herman Caldera, who will forever cherish the memories of their time together.

Tere is preceded in death by her father, Daniel Polendo; her sister, Manuela Caldera; and two infant brothers, all of whom she kept close in memory and spirit throughout her life.

While Tere's physical presence will be missed dearly, her vibrancy will continue to inspire those she has touched. Her unwavering love for her family and her passion for life serve as a beautiful testament to the person she was—a true treasure in the hearts of many.

Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 from 4pm to 6pm at Palmer Mortuary and the recitation of the Holy Rosary will be at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 7pm.

The final viewing for Tere will be at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 from 9am to 10am and the Mass will begin at 10am. Interment will follow at Santo Tomas Cemetery.