Guadalupe "Lupita" (Molina) Secrest

Guadalupe “Lupita” (Molina) Secrest, age 87, of Harlingen, Texas, passed away on April 23, 2026. She was born on December 12, 1938, in rural Starr County to Sabas and Ignacia Molina.

Lupita was known for her clever humor, strength, and generosity. She graduated from Edinburg High School, where she was a member of the Sergeanettes Drill Team. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from Pan American College and began her teaching career at Edinburg Junior High, where she met her husband, Byron D. Secrest. While living in Edinburg, they welcomed their first child, Rebea, and later their second child, Rene, while working for the Ben Bolt–Palito Blanco School District. Mrs. Secrest enjoyed great success coaching girls’ volleyball, basketball, and track. The highlight of her coaching career was leading her team to the UIL State Volleyball Tournament. She concluded her teaching career at the Raymondville School District as a special education teacher, a role that brought her tremendous joy and fulfillment. Lupita was the heart of her family. She is survived by her children, Rebea (Robert) Fraga and Rene (Rhonda) Secrest; and her grandchildren, Roberto Fraga, Reanne Fraga, Claudia Secrest, Ryan Secrest, Jayden Secrest, Taylor Secrest, Bryson Secrest, and Prescott Secrest.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Byron D. Secrest, her parents, and siblings. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Albert Smith and his staff, Medical Team Hospice, and her caregivers for their exceptional care.

A special thank you to Chayo for her loving and tender support.

Visitation will be held at Heavenly Grace Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 26873 N. White Ranch Road, La Feria, Texas, on April 28, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Harlingen, Texas, on April 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Raymondville Memorial Park Cemetery in Raymondville, Texas