Salza Lara

With deepest respect and loving remembrance, we honor the life of Selza (Salazar) Lara, affectionately known as "Mom," who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in Temple, Texas. Selza was born on April 6, 1946, in Taylor, Texas, and from the very beginning, she graced the world with her warmth, compassion, and wisdom.

Throughout her long and fulfilling life, Selza was truly the matriarch and the precious thread that held her family together. She found joy and purpose in the time she spent with her loved ones, always ensuring no moment together was taken for granted. Her gentle presence provided a shoulder to lean on, her listening ear was ever ready to comfort, and her boundless wisdom was a guiding force for those privileged to know her. Being the heart of her family was her proudest achievement, and it is in these cherished roles that her legacy will live on.

She is survived by her two sons; Roy (Danica) Lara, Ray (Yolanda) Lara; one daughter, Irene (Sirildo) Lara-Castillo ; eleven grandchildren, Stephanie Martinez, Robbie (Carrie) Lara, Frankie (Marissa) Lara, Gilbert (Sabrina) Lara, Rebeckah Lara, Veronica (Abel Jr.,) Cortines,Lee (Sharon,) Lara, Terre (Frank) Lara, Lupe Tijerina, Chris (Crystal) Lara, Steven Lara,, Sandi (Christian) Lara- Yglecias; twenty-two great grandchildren, Alazea, Kensley, Emma, Jace, Abel Jr., Xavian, Xander, Adalyn, Jonah, Drake, Delilah, C.J., Alonna, Kade, Corbin, Baby Lara, Anabelle, Natalia, Brayden, Adrik, Marilyn, Madeline, Matthew; two great great grandchildren, Ila, and Kaizen; great neice, Alyssa Crum and great nephew, Gabriel Sancho.

Selza endured profound loss in her journey. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Steven Lara; father, Raymond Salazar; her devoted mother, Juanita Salazar; her dear brother, Raymond Salazar; sisters, Basilia Reyes, Dominga Salazar, Bene Lara, Rosemary Salazar, Rosa Vasquez; and her beloved son, Robert Lara. The memory of her unwavering love and the light she shared with all who entered her life endure in the hearts she has touched.

As we reflect upon Selza's remarkable life, we are grateful for her grace, her unwavering devotion to family, and the deep reservoir of care she offered so freely. Every moment spent in her company was a lasting gift.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Salza are invited to pay their respects and celebrate her abiding legacy during the following services: A visitation will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center, located at 4235 E. US Hwy 190, Temple, TX 76501. During this time, a Testimony Hour will be offered from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the same location. A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM, also at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center. Burial will follow at Edwin Hardy Hernandez Cemetery, 302 FM 1600, Cameron, TX 76520, beginning at 11:30 AM.

As we gather to remember Selza Lara, let us hold fast to the memories she created and the love she so freely gave. Her spirit continues to inspire, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her. May she rest in peace, joined again in the embrace of those who went before her, and may her memory remain an enduring blessing.

A special thank you to the staff at Baylor Scott and White Hospital for their compassionate care.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young's Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center.