Obituary of Herlinda "Linda" Villegas

Herlinda (Linda) L. Villegas was called to heaven peacefully on Monday, November 22, 2021, surrounded by family at her home in Austin, Texas.

Linda was born on September 30, 1944, to Cristobal G. Lucio and Guadalupe Salazar in Austin, Texas, where she grew up and worked faithfully in the daycare industry for over 20 years, taking care of and shaping the lives of the children of God. Following her retirement, Linda returned to caregiving in the form of providing home healthcare for those she had encountered along her walk in Christ. Her work as a caregiver - whether for youth, adults, or the elderly - was fueled by her passion for helping others and blessing those around her. She was a loyal member of Temple Sinai church and dedicated all of her years to saving souls for our beloved Lord & savior, Jesus Christ. 

Linda was known for her wit and "directness," saving no opportunity to preach the Lord's word to those who were around to listen. She was also regarded for her generous spirit, kind heart, and love for giving. Linda saved many lives on her journey for the Lord and earned the title of a devoted prayer warrior, having laid hands over and prayed nightly for over 300 people. Linda's faith did not waver or weaken during her fight with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis; Rather, it was strengthened as she continued forward with persistent and unconditional trust in her God.

Linda is survived by her remaining two sisters and brother, Lupe L. Salinas, Susie L. Marsh, Chris Lucio, Jr; daughter, Priscilla A. Villegas-Zapata; son-in-law, Joe C. Zapata Jr; 6 grandchildren, Derrick, John David, Jessica, Jarrett, Desiree, Leanne; and 5 great-grandchildren, Derrick Jr., Jesiah, Layla, Jazlynn and Neveah. Linda was preceded in death and greeted at the gates of heaven by her parents; brothers Morris, Celestino, and John; sisters Mary and Beatrice; and only son, Jesse L. Villegas III. 

Linda’s last requests included the following pallbearers: Joe C. Zapata Jr., John David Flores Jr., Derrick J. Villegas, Jarrett R. Villegas, Jarrett Williams, Eric Lopez, Chamothy Holmes, Angel Ruiz & Steven Villarreal. She also requested a viewing at Assumption Mausoleum, a service by Templo Sinai Senior Pastor Manuel Ramos, and a plot close to her son, Jesse L. Villegas III.

Linda was loved and highly favored; She will be dearly missed by many. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., with a funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m., at Assumption Chapel and Mausoleum, 3650 S. IH-35 Frontage Rd., Austin,Texas 78704. Interment to follow.