Manuela Villarreal Rogers passed peacefully on May 21, 2026, at the age of 82, at Houston Methodist Clear Lake. Born on November 11, 1943, in Agualeguas, Nuevo León, Mexico, she was the beloved daughter of Manuel and Elida Villarreal.

Manuela was a cherished member of the Alvin community. She was known for her warmth, generosity, resilience, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. Her life was a testament to hard work, devotion to family, faith, and the joy of serving others.

From the late 1970s through the 1980s, Manuela proudly owned and operated the local Dairy Queen in Alvin. She later transformed that business into the beloved Villarreal Café, on Gordon Street. For more than a decade, she shared her authentic Mexican cuisine and heartfelt hospitality with the community. To many, the café was more than a restaurant; it was a gathering place filled with laughter, comfort, and the feeling of home.

Manuela was a woman of remarkable talent and creativity. She excelled in painting, cake decorating, crafting, business, and countless other trades. However, cooking was the language through which she expressed her love most profoundly. Her kitchen was more than a place to cook; it was a place of comfort, joy, and togetherness

More than her accomplishments, Manuela will be remembered for the way she made people feel-- loved, welcomed, and cared for. Her kindness was effortless, her laughter unforgettable, and her generosity limitless. She carried herself with strength and grace through every chapter of life. She leaves behind a legacy rooted in faith, family, perseverance, and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Manuel and Elida Villarreal; her brother, Cayetaño Villarreal; and her nephew, Cayetaño Villarreal Jr.

She is survived by her sisters, Josefina Mendez and husband Geraldo, and Blasa Vela and husband Jesse; her brothers, Genero Villarreal and wife Isabelle, John Villarreal and wife Anetia, Frank Villarreal, and Robert Villarreal and wife Martha. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister-in-law, Ludivina "Lulu" Villarreal, wife of her late brother Cayetaño Villarreal.

Manuela deeply cherished her many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She loved them like her own children, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. Her love extended far beyond family, embracing dear friends, neighbors, customers, and all those fortunate enough to cross her path. The impact of her kindness and compassion will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Pallbearers will be John Villarreal, Frank Villarreal, Robert Villarreal, Mark Vela, John Villarreal Jr., Christopher Villarreal, Mike Lingerfelt, and Ryan Turner. Honorary pallbearers will be Genero Villarreal, Jesse Vela, and Beto Villarreal.

The family also wishes to express their deepest appreciation to the compassionate staff at U.S. Renal Care in Alvin as well as Dr. Abdul Abdellatif, NP Mario Gonzalez, NP Angel Smith, Dr. Luna Liu, Dr. Ahmed Elsherbiny, Dr. Jose Cuellar Silva, Dr. Jose Cuevas Saille, and the entire team at Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital. We are deeply grateful for the exceptional care, kindness, and support provided to Manuela throughout her journey. Their compassion and dedication brought comfort and peace not only to Manuela, but to her entire family.

Though her earthly journey has ended. She leaves behind a legacy that will never fade along with a family forever blessed to have known and loved her.

A visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, at Scott Funeral Home from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, with a rosary beginning at 7:00 PM. A funeral mass will be Saturday, May 30, 2026, at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church at 10:30 AM. Interment to take place at Grace Memorial Park Cemetery following the services.