Ivonne's obituary
November 1, 1966 – November 17, 2018
Ivonne Cabrales, lovingly known as “Bonnie” to many of her family members, passed away peacefully in her home in Dallas, Texas, on November 17, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. She was 52 years old.
Born on November 1, 1966, in El Paso, Texas, Ivonne grew up in a close‑knit and loving family. She graduated from Irvin High School—where she met and later married her high school sweetheart, David Cabrales—and went on to attend Texas Tech University before dedicating herself fully to the true passion of her life: being a mother.
Ivonne was the heart of her family. She and David shared the profound joy of raising their four children—Emma, Atticus, Sarah, and Tessa—who were her greatest pride and life’s work. Though she did not pursue a career outside the home, her days were filled with purpose: managing the rhythm of a busy household, orchestrating family gatherings, and always putting her children’s needs first. Her life was a testament to the power of selfless love and quiet devotion.
Even in the face of a long and difficult battle with cancer, Ivonne remained courageous and strong, fighting with everything she had—for her children above all. Her determination, warmth, and resilience shone through every step of her journey.
Ivonne had a vibrant spirit and a warm, contagious laugh that could fill any room. She delighted in birthday cake, had an enduring love for the music of The Eagles, and found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her kindness, humor, and genuine care for others left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
She is survived by her children Emma, Atticus, Sarah, and Tessa; her parents Ray and Tess Chavez; her siblings Yvette (Mike) Ortega and Gilbert Martinez; and a wide circle of extended family and friends who continue to honor her memory.
A funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Farmers Branch, TX, followed by a brief service in the church columbarium and a reception.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ivonne’s memory to MD Anderson Cancer Center, directed to “Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Research” under the “other” category.
Ivonne’s legacy lives on in her children and in the many lives she touched through her unwavering love, loyalty, and gentle strength. She showed us that the most important work in life often happens behind the scenes—and that a mother’s devotion can be the greatest gift of all.