Celestina "Sally" Rios Sauceda

Celestina Rios Sauceda, lovingly known as Sally, age 69, of New Braunfels, Texas, entered into peaceful rest and stepped into the gates of Heaven on Friday, July 18, 2025.

Sally was born on February 3, 1956, in Seguin, Texas, to Olegario Luna and Lina M. Rios. She was one of five siblings and shared a special bond with each of them. She deeply loved and protected her brothers and sisters, always making it a priority to care for them in whatever way she could. She is survived by her siblings: Eduardo Rios (Pam), Alma Martinez (Nieves), Alfonso Rios (Diana), Emma Castillo (Joe). She was the heart of their family, always watching over them with a nurturing spirit and strong sense of loyalty.

She is proceeded in death by her husband Ruben Sauceda, and together they enjoyed traveling, visiting loved ones, and spending time outdoors—they could often be found fishing or camping. She poured her heart into their marriage and into the lives of her family.

Sally gave 32 years of faithful service to Kirkwood Manor in Environmental Services . She took great pride in her work and was known for her warm, contagious smile that brightened the days of not only her coworkers, but also the residents she cared for. She enjoyed working closely alongside her dear friend and supervisor, Lucy Godi.

Beyond her work, Sally’s greatest passion was serving the Lord. She was a mother figure to many and made it her mission to plant seeds of faith in everyone she encountered. Whether through conversations about God, praying for others, or simply showing love and compassion, Sally lived a life of bold faith. She never met a stranger—only someone she hadn’t yet had the chance to bless.

She lived by three simple but powerful truths:

“Jesus always comes first,.”

“It’s important to forgive.”

“Care for others and love always.”

These weren’t just words to Sally—they were a way of life, and a legacy she instilled in her family.

Sally loved attending church, worshipping the Lord, and spending time with her loved ones. She found joy in the everyday: bingo, thrift shopping, yard sales, folding laundry (which she surprisingly enjoyed), and especially BBQs and Lotería nights surrounded by family and friends. These moments brought her great happiness and allowed her to pour even more love into those around her.

Sally was blessed with a large and loving family: 22 nieces and nephews, 33 great-nieces and nephews with two on the way, and 10 great-great-nieces and nephews. When she prayed, she’d often say, “I ask God to bless from the oldest to the youngest, and all in between.” That was Sally’s heart—big enough to hold us all.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the following: Pallbearers: Michael Castillo, Snowy Martinez, Jimmy Facundo, Justin Castillo, Brian Martinez, Brady Rios. Honorary Pallbearers: Richard Snyder, Senaido Rodriguez III,and Jacob Cruz.

We would also like to give thank to:

• Carmen Rodriguez with Legacy

• The City of New Braunfels First Responders

• The Doctors and Medical staff who cared for her.

• Pastor Jamie Guerrero

• American Medical Home Health

• Davitas of New Braunfels

And our sincere appreciation to Maria with Med Team for the love and care and commitment she gave to Sally up until the final day of her life’s journey.

Sally will always be deeply loved and profoundly missed.