Aida Barragan

Aida Barragan, cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on February 27, 1947, in La Villa, Texas. Aida was a beacon of kindness, honesty, and caring throughout her life. She was a straight-talker, always conveying her thoughts with sincerity and warmth, qualities that endeared her to all who knew her.

Aida’s family was the foundation of her life, and she cherished every single moment with them!   For 22 years, she was married to the true love of her life, the father of her children. Though they later parted ways, their bond remained a profound influence, shaping her unwavering devotion to family—a love that remained the heartbeat of her existence.

She treasured every moment with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, finding immense joy in their laughter, their milestones, and the love they shared. Her legacy continues through her beloved daughters, Frankie Hastings (Russell) and Frances Brooks (Charlie), as well as her grandchildren Gregory Cantu II, Hunter Gavers, Yana Shaw and great-grandchildren Brantley Cantu, Braeden Cantu, Thomas Pinkowski III, Megan Belle Greiwe, along with seven additional grandchildren who brought her endless happiness.

Aida had a passion for sewing and ironing, a craft she learned from her grandmother and took great pride in. She found joy in creating and modifying clothing and loved to dance and drive, often making long trips between Chicago and Texas to visit loved ones. In her youth, she excelled in diving, earning numerous medals and recognition from her swimming peers and mentors.

Aida’s strong work ethic was forged early as a migrant worker alongside her parents. She later built a successful career as a store manager, retiring from Exxon Mobil after three years. Prior to that, she thrived for 12 years as a store manager at Clark Enterprises in Chicago, where she was frequently praised for her leadership and dedication to corporate standards.

She is survived by her mother, Minerva Chavez; siblings Rosa Linda Benegas, Edna Contreras, Minerva (Mikki) Garza, and Armando Garza. She was preceded in death by her father, Nicholas Garza, whose influence helped shape the remarkable woman she became.

As we celebrate Aida’s life, we honor her enduring spirit, honesty, and deep love for family. She will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

A service in her honor will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025 at Windridge Memorial Park 7014 S Rawson Bridge Rd, Cary, IL 60013  847-639-3883.  Visitation will be 11:00-12:00 and service will be from 12:00-1:00.  All who knew her—or wish to support her loved ones—are welcome to attend and share stories, memories, and love.