Viola Diana Alaniz, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend, entered eternal rest on October 1, 2026, in the presence of her family. She was born on July 20, 1950, in Cuero, Texas, to the late Albert and Susie DeLeon Guajardo Hernandez.
She is preceded in death by her beloved son, Candelario Alaniz III, affectionately known as “Nuno/Jr.” Viola extended her love for him in her heart until her last breath.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 53 years, Candelario “Candy” Alaniz, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and cherished moments. She is also survived by her daughter, Susie Alaniz Gomez, and her husband, Matthew, as well as her cherished grandchildren: Sadie Elaine and Ace Andrew Gomez, Erica Cuellar (Caleb), Gabriella Alaniz (Florentino Amador IV), Moses Alaniz (Tyanna), Destiny Alaniz, and Illyanna Alaniz (Hunter Mullins).
She also leaves behind her beloved great‑grandchildren: Scarlett, Caleb Jr., Mason, and Michael Cuellar; Everleigh, Emelia, and Florentino Amador V; Adonis Taylor; and Vespera Alaniz.
Viola is also survived by her brothers: Agapito “Pete” Guajardo Sr. (Linda), Albert Guajardo (Delia), David Guajardo (Jolanda), Donald Guajardo (Rose), and Patrick Guajardo (Perry and Norma); and sisters‑in‑law Annie Flores (Ramiro) and Gloria Barbontin (John), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Viola’s greatest joy was being a mother to her children and grandchildren. She loved hosting and organizing celebrations for them, ensuring each occasion was special and creating memories they will treasure. She was happiest when inviting her family for meals and when surrounded by the people she deeply loved.
Viola enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—shopping, crocheting, working word searches, cooking, watching cooking shows, and sharing recipes. She enjoyed visiting with friends and store employees whenever she was in town, often extending her love to them also. Those who knew Viola often expressed how much they loved seeing her around town. She was known for her kindness, her beautiful spirit, and the happiness she carried with her. Her smile, generosity, and genuine love for others left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Viola and her beloved husband, Candy, shared the sweetest tradition of taking nightly car rides around town, enjoying each other’s company. Together, they would quietly check on the children to make sure everyone was home and doing well. Those rides became treasured moments filled with stories of the past and conversations about the present, and when they spoke of the future she would say, “Si Dios quiere.”
Viola’s faith was a constant part of who she was. She believed wholeheartedly in God, and her prayers reflected her faith, humility, and trust in God’s plan.
Following the passing of her mother, Susie Guajardo Hernandez, Viola lovingly stepped into the role of matriarch of the Guajardo family. She embraced the responsibility with an open heart, making sure her brothers, nieces, and nephews knew how deeply they were loved. She always greeted them with a warm hug and a kiss. She often called to check on them, would send fun text messages, and was known to send social media posts inspired by her love for them. She had a gift for making each person feel unconditionally loved and cherished.
The loss of Viola leaves a deep wound in the hearts of her family and friends. Yet, through the grief, the family finds comfort in knowing that she is rejoicing in Heaven, reunited with her precious son, Candy Jr., as they rest, united, in eternal peace.
Her family will cherish the love she gave, the traditions she created, the laughter they shared, and the countless memories she leaves behind. Her legacy will live on through every person she loved the most.
We feel honored to have experienced her love. You were so precious to us, and we will see you again one day, “Si Dios quiere.”
Gobble Gobble! We can’t wait to see all you fine folks there. Let’s celebrate community, music, and the spirit of Cuero. Bring your friends, your family, and your best turkey dance moves!
