Zorina Vela Sandoval

Zorina Sandoval, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished member of her extended Vela family, passed away on August 14, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. She was 74 years old.

Zorina was born on November 23, 1951, in Laredo, Texas, to Ninfa Moreno and Jose Ramon Vela. Throughout her life, she carried with her a deep devotion to family, an incredible work ethic, and a strength that those who knew and loved her will never forget.

Zorina dedicated much of her professional life to education, working as a paraprofessional in multiple schools in El Paso, Texas, and Wichita Falls, Texas. She took great pride in her work and in helping students and those around her. Her dedication, dependability, and hardworking nature were evident in everything she did

But above everything else, Zorina loved her family.

Her sons held an especially important place in her heart. She loved them deeply and fiercely and carried that love with her throughout her life. She also treasured her brothers, her sister, her grandchildren, her cousins and nieces and nephews, and her entire extended family. Family was not simply part of Zorina’s life—it was at the center of it.

Zorina is survived by her husband, Juan Roberto Sandoval; her sons, Ricky Rene Sandoval (Monica), Daniel Sandoval, her brother, Raymon Vela, and her granddaughters Olivia, Lucia.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Johnny Sandoval Jr, her parents, her sister Mary, her brothers Richard, Raul, Rene and Noe.

Those who knew Zorina will remember her strength, her determination, her hardworking spirit, her beautiful yard and flowers, her love of a spotless home, and, perhaps most of all, the fierce love she had for the people she called family.

Her voice, her guidance, her strength, and even those “drill sergeant” moments will be deeply missed. The flowers she planted will continue to bloom, and the lessons, love, and memories she planted within her family will continue to grow for generations.

Zorina Sandoval will be deeply loved, forever remembered, and greatly missed.

A Committal Service will be held at Mount Carmel Cemetery, 401 S Zaragoza Rd, El Paso, TX 79907. A Service date and time will soon be determined.