Febronia Oliva

Febronia "Mona" Oliva, born on June 25, 1937, in Staples, Texas left this world on June 20, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas, surrounded by love. She lived a life filled with vibrant experiences, each marked by her unwavering spirit and kindness, leaving behind a lasting legacy of music, laughter, and cherished memories.

Mona was the embodiment of sweetness; her huge heart touched everyone who had the joy of knowing her. As a fiercely devoted protector of her family, she created a warm and welcoming home where joy was abundant and love enveloped every moment. Her passion for gardening and cooking transformed her house into a haven and her culinary creations were celebrated at every gathering. Her family fondly remembers how she filled their home with music, especially during her most beloved holiday, Christmas. Decorating the tree with festive tunes playing in the background, accompanied by steaming mugs of hot chocolate, created unforgettable moments of togetherness that will be remembered forever.

Mona dedicated 62 wonderful years to her husband, Edward Oliva. Together, they built a loving family, a bond that will continue to flourish through their children: Martin and Michael Oliva, and their beloved daughter Theresa, who is married to Gary Smethers. Her pride and joy extended to her granddaughters, Katherine (Zach Lee) Smethers, Aubree Smethers, Emory Best, and great-granddaughters Emilia and Caroline Lee, each of whom brought her immeasurable happiness. She is also survived by her loving siblings Jim Gonzales, Cleta Arrellano, and Rose Navarro.

Before her illness, Mona contributed to her community as part of the D.E.B.T Program with the Lubbock Independent School District (LISD), a role that highlighted her commitment to nurturing and supporting the younger generations. The family takes comfort in her memory and her strength, even as she faced many challenges towards the end of her life due to the effects of a stroke.

Mona is preceded in death by her parents Martin and Magdalena Gonzales, her sister Paula Narbaez, her brothers Pedro and Tommy Gonzales, and her daughter-in-law Sandra Oliva. Their love remains vibrant in the hearts of those who knew her, and she is warmly remembered in their thoughts and conversations. 

As friends and family gather to honor Mona’s memory, they recall the beauty she brought into their lives. She will be missed deeply but her spirit will live on through the love she spread each day. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Plaza Nursing Home and Beyond Faith Hospice, whose compassion and care made her journey a little softer.

Mona's visitation will take place on June 25, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Guajardo Funeral Chapels in Lubbock. A Rosary will follow at Our Lady Grace Catholic Church at 7:00 PM that same day. Her Funeral Service will begin on June 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the church, bringing together all whose lives she touched.

Though she has left this earthly realm, Mona's love and legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. May her soul rest in peace, wrapped in the love she so freely shared.