Margaret Saldivar Obituary

Margaret Saldivar

Portland, Texas – Margaret Saldivar passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on Monday, July 7, 2025, with her two sons and her close friends, Abel and Irma Adame, by her side. Margaret was born to parents Jose and Amalia Saldivar on November 11, 1940. After marrying Raymond C. Ramirez, she spent her entire life working and raising three sons in Portland, Texas. She began her education in the GPISD school system where she was a member of the 1959 district champion basketball team and played alto saxophone in the GP band. Little did Margaret at the time know the impact that she would have on the Gregory-Porland community for generations to come. Margaret dedicated 44 years of her heart and soul to the GP school district. She began her journey as a teachers aid where it became evident to everyone she was destined for greater things. She was subsequently hired as the secretary/administrative assistant for the GPISD Administration Office. Throughout her tenure in this role, the impact that she has had on the Gregory-Portland community and school district remains evident on multiple levels. She firmly believed that all the employees at GP were equally important regardless of their job title, and she treated everyone with dignity and respect. Margaret was often referred to as “Miss Gregory-Portland,” because for many years she oversaw one of the most sacred items in the history of GP: Football ticket sales! In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Margaret earned certification to manage the school elections. She also participated in the Catholic Daughters of America, and she donated time and money to numerous charities. Margaret had a “unique” sense of style and grace about her. Everyone who knew her has a “Margaret” story. Her beautiful smile, laughter (often quite loud), and personality was infectious. She could put a smile on your face instantly. She adored her family and friends unconditionally and cherished the time that she spent with them. The daughter of a musician, Margaret loved to sing, dance, travel, and eat great food. She traveled to Italy, Spain, and Switzerland where she once attended the Montreux Jazz Festival overlooking Lake Lucerne. However, the thing that she truly loved were the “Friday Night Lights” at Ray Akins Wildcat Stadium. She is the epitome of a true GP Wildcat.

Margaret ingrained the value of hard work, loyalty, love, and respect in her children and friends. She was a loving and nurturing wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and dear friend to many. Most importantly, she was a loving mother. She was the best friend that any son or daughter could have. She is survived by her two sons, Ernie (Janie) Ramirez, and Abel Ramirez of Portland. She is preceded in death by her oldest son, Jesse Saldivar Ramirez (Connecticut), her parents, Jose Saldivar and Amalia Menchaca Saldivar (Gregory, TX), along with her oldest brother Gilbert Cortinas (Portland, TX), sister Cora Hagen (Portland TX), brother Richard Saldivar (Gregory, TX), and brother Joe Saldivar (Houston, TX). Yes, it is true that Margaret Saldivar has entered the Kingdom of God. She will remain in our hearts and souls forever. And there is no doubt that upon arrival in Heaven she was wearing her favorite GP Wildcat t-shirt! We love you mama…” Miss Margaret.”

Visitation will be held from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 17, 2025 with a Rosary to be recited at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Portland. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com