Ophelia Trevino, lovingly known as "Mom", "Grandma" & "Phia," brought joy and warmth into the world from the day she was born on June 22, 1956, in the heart of Dallas, Texas, to her proud parents, Joel and Julia Rico. Phia's childhood was filled with laughter and love, setting the stage for a life lived to the fullest.
Phia's educational journey led her to North Dallas High School, where she laid the foundation for a life dedicated to learning and service. She embarked on a remarkable career with the Dallas Independent School District, starting as a teacher's aide and steadily rising through the ranks to become the school Parent Liaison. Her unwavering commitment to her work culminated in her retirement as the beloved elementary data controller, touching the lives of countless students and families at Marcus Elementary, Burnett Elementary, Cary Middle School, St. Monica Catholic School afterschool care, and an ESL instructor at the Dallas Public Library.
While Phia's professional accomplishments were significant, her most cherished role was that of a loving wife, caring mom, and devoted grandma. Her home was a hub of love and laughter, where family and friends gathered, and her legendary breakfasts became infamous. She was a talented cook who could make a simple meal feel so special and enjoyable. She was well known for her scrumptious cinnamon ice cream, breakfast tacos, homemade beans, chorizo, menudo, and her delicious tamales are just a few foods that were especially appetizing. Phia's kitchen was a place of tasty treats and comfort, where everyone had an open seat at the table.
Phia's Catholic faith guided her through life's journey. Her love for her family and God was undeniable, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. In her free time, Phia enjoyed the thrill of the casinos, with Haywire and Wheel of Fortune as her go-to slot machines. She embraced adventure through her voyages on Carnival cruises, exploring the wonders of Alaska, Mexico, and various tropical paradises. She visited numerous exciting destinations such as Italy, the Bahamas, and Hawaii. However, she claimed that her ultimate trip was her pilgrimage to the Vatican where she was lucky enough to attend mass and receive the Holy Eucharist. Phia's heart also belonged to the Dallas Cowboys, and she could often be found cheering them on with intense enthusiasm.
Phia's love story with her beloved husband, Jesus Trevino, was nothing short of magical. They met at a Superbowl party she was hosting, and immediately her radiant smile and fun-loving personality captured his heart. Together, they created a loving and harmonious home.
Phia is survived by her loving husband, Jesus Trevino; her children, Christine Martinez and her husband Rene, Erika Castillo and her husband Julio, Brian Gutierrez and his wife Veronica, and Stephanie Gutierrez and her husband Alex; her beloved mother, Julia Lawless, and her adoring grandchildren Miranda, Mariah, Mikayla, Marissa, Gionni, Madilynn and great grandsons Isaiah and Idan, who brought immeasurable joy to her life. She is also survived by her siblings Andrew, Veronica, Linda, Monica, Rueben, Joel, Jr., Jesse and Martha.
She now rests in eternal peace alongside her beloved grandparents Casto and Barbara Franco.
As we celebrate Phia's life, let us remember her infectious laughter, her endless love, and her ability to find joy in every moment. May her spirit continue to inspire us to cherish our loved ones and savor the sweetness in life, just as she did. In her memory, let us spread love and kindness, keeping her legacy alive in our hearts.