It is with a heavy heart yet profound gratitude for her impactful life that we announce the passing of Esmeralda Perales Cisneros, known lovingly as Esmer or Matha, on December 3, 2025. Born on July 21, 1960, in Hereford, Texas, Esmeralda embodied a unique spirit that was both adventurous and compassionate, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Esmeralda was a woman of many passions. Her love for music, especially old-school rock ‘n’ roll and Tejano, was infectious. She was known for her humorous, playful spirit, often giving those around her a hard time, just for the fun of it. A woman of many talents, Esmeralda made a significant contribution to the healthcare sector as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Phlebotomist. She was recognized for her hard work and dedication, receiving the Employee of the Month award in 2002 at BSA Hospital. Despite her accomplishments, Esmeralda maintained a humble spirit, always valuing the simple pleasures in life like going to the casino, playing bingo, and enjoying a cold beer in good company.

Esmeralda’s greatest joy, however, came from her family. She was a loving mother to her daughters, Alexandra (Felix) Rios and Melinda (Freckles) Silva, and a doting grandmother to Eduardo, Christopher, Aidyn, Felix Jr., and Leonardo. Esmeralda also shared a deep bond with her siblings, nieces, and nephews. As Maya Angelou once said, “I sustain myself with the love of family,” and these words perfectly encapsulate Esmeralda’s life. Her love for her family was boundless, and she often expressed how much they meant to her.

Esmeralda is survived by her daughters, Alexandra (Felix) Rios and Melinda (Freckles) Silva; sons-in-law Felix (Alexandra) Rios; grandchildren Eduardo Guardado, Christopher Guardado, Aidyn Rios, Felix Jr., and Leonardo Rios; siblings Delfine (“Coach”) Fox, Lisa (Joe) Leatherwood, Margarita Castillo, Michael (Cynthia) Perales, and Leo Perales; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leopodo and Beatrice Perales; sister Esperanza (Ray) Pesina; sister Guadalupe Logan; brother-in-law Guadalupe (Margarita) Castillo; and nephew Mathew Castillo.

Esmeralda’s unwavering love, her infectious laughter, and her zest for life will be deeply missed but never forgotten. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the wonderful memories we shared with her. We invite you to leave your memories and upload photos of Esmeralda on her memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comforting reminder of the vibrant and loving woman she was. Rest in peace, dear Esmeralda. You are forever in our hearts.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. Monday, December 8, 2025, at Lighthouse Funeral Home, 3707 Wolflin Ave., Amarillo, Texas.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, December 9 at St. Laurence Catholic Church, 2300 N. Spring Street, Amarillo.  Interment will follow at Llano Cemetery East, Amarillo.,