04/22/2026
Eva Portillo, 79, of Balmorhea, Texas, passed away on April 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Eva was born on October 25, 1946, in Balmorhea, Texas, to Tomas and Ruby Contreras.
She graduated from Balmorhea High School and later dedicated herself to a life of service and work.
Eva was employed by the United States Postal Service and later served as a Unit Clerk at the Reeves County Detention Center for 11 years.
A devoted woman of faith, Eva was actively involved in the Catholic Church, serving as a lector and Eucharistic minister, and faithfully ministering to the sick and homebound.
On June 28, 1965, she married the love of her life, David Leo Portillo Sr., in Pecos, Texas. Together, they built a family grounded in love, faith, and resilience.
Eva’s life was defined by her unwavering faith, strength, compassion, and unconditional love. She will remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
She is preceded in death by her husband, David Portillo Sr.; her daughter, Regina Portillo; her parents, Tomas and Ruby Contreras; and her sisters, Lucy Rodriguez and Dora Machuca.
She is survived by her children, David Portillo Jr. (Rosemary), Michelle Portillo (Pete), Gerald Portillo (Ashley), and Jessica Portillo (Mario); 17 grandchildren, Nigiel (Casey), Jenna (Tony), David, Tia, Sasha (Leslie), JohnPaul, Aryn (Luis), Nadia (Erick), Amelia, Katelyn, Emma, Ava, Alisa, Mario, Mateo, Adrianna, Casey; and two great-grandchildren, Breeyah and Bryson.
Eva cherished her family above all else. She was a constant and steadfast presence in their lives—offering care in both simple and profound ways, from preparing meals with love to offering support during life’s most difficult moments. She was a passionate Balmorhea Bear supporter and took great pride in attending and traveling to her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.
Known for her extraordinary cooking, especially her authentic Mexican meals, Eva created a legacy of warmth around her table. She will be remembered for her radiant smile, her strength, her devotion to family, and her boundless love.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Peaceful Garden Funeral Home from 1:00pm to 5:30pm. Rosary will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church is Balmorhea, Texas Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 7:00pm. Mass will be Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Christ the King Catholic Church in Balmorhea, Texas at 10:00am with burial to follow at Saragosa Cemetery in Saragosa, Texas.
Pallbearers will be David Portillo III, Danny Rodriguez, Kevin Machuca, Matthew Contreras, Luis Morales, and Leslie Denton.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Gibbons of MD Anderson, as well as to family, friends, coworkers, and all who shared in loving Eva throughout her life.
She will be forever missed and lovingly remembered.
