Carmen Tovar De Castro's Obituary
Carmen Castro, 79, of Lemon Grove, California, passed away on January 30, 2026.
Born on July 16, 1946, in Chihuahua, Mexico, she immigrated to El Paso, Texas, as a teenager. In later years, she made her home in Lemon Grove, California, remaining close to her family.
She was the devoted mother of six and the matriarch of her family. Following her divorce, she worked as a waitress while determined to create a better future for her children. Through perseverance and grit, she pursued her education and became a nurse.
She dedicated her nursing career to Thomason Hospital in El Paso, now known as University Medical Center of El Paso, where she worked in the oncology unit caring for patients and families during some of their most difficult moments. Her work reflected the compassion and strength that defined her life.
Though known for her toughness, she was equally tender. She was funny, quick to smile, and carried a positive outlook even in hard seasons. Deeply nonjudgmental and loving, she welcomed others as they were and made people feel safe in her presence. In her later years, she formally adopted relatives in need, continuing her lifelong role as Mom to all who needed her love and protection.
She also embraced life’s simple joys. She loved music and often reminisced about attending a Bruce Springsteen concert and seeing her favorite, Juan Gabriel, perform in Juárez before he became widely known. She enjoyed playing the slots and spending time at Viejas Casino & Resort, her favorite casino.
Even in her final days, she stood beside her sister, advocating for her treatment and providing devoted care and support. She leaves behind a family shaped by her strength, her humor, and her enduring love.
She is survived by her six children, Eduardo Castro, Javier Castro, Rosa Gonzales, Yolanda Tovar, Antonio Castro and Clarissa Jaime; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.
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