Elizabeth Godinez

Elizabeth Fresnillo Godinez, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, left this world on March 8, 2026, at the age of 83 in Houston, Texas. Born on June 19, 1942, in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, Elizabeth carried with her the vibrant spirit and rich culture of her origins throughout her life.

She was the beloved wife of Carlos Godinez and together they formed a partnership rooted in faith and love. Their marriage began on September 11, 1965, after a serendipitous meeting at a Baptist Church Singles Convention, where their correspondence blossomed into a lifelong commitment.

Elizabeth was a proud mother to her children, John Carlos Godinez, Miriam Elizabeth Godinez Downs, Maria Olivia Godinez Canizales, and Benjamin Abel Godinez, each of whom brought her immense joy. She embraced her role as a grandmother to 11 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 18 great-grandchildren, nurturing them with the same love and guidance she poured into her own family.

She cherished her siblings, as she was one of 12 in the Fresnillo family, and her bond with each of them enriched her life greatly.

A woman of deep faith, Elizabeth dedicated her early years as a young teenager and young woman in Nuevo Laredo to serving her community. She was a committed Sunday school teacher, a valued member of the choir, and actively participated in the women’s church organization. Her journey of faith continued as she pursued her education at Monterrey, Mexico's El Tech University, where she eagerly engaged in studies that would equip her for a life devoted to service.

The couple's passion for education led them to study together at a Baptist Bible Seminary in Torreon, Mexico, focusing on church administration and teaching, particularly within children’s departments. Their aspirations took them across borders when they obtained an American college student visa to study at the Mexican Bible Institute in San Antonio in 1968.

Throughout her life, Elizabeth was a steadfast presence in the Hispanic Baptist churches her husband pastored, serving congregations in Idaho and various towns across Texas. In the 1980s and 90s, she became a cherished member of Houston's Coro Unido, which united voices from numerous churches across the area. The choir's tours throughout Mexico and Texas, performing at Baptist conventions and churches, highlighted her passionate dedication to music and ministry.

Elizabeth's mission didn't stop at the church doors; she played a crucial role in sending love and guidance through missionary trips to Mexico, often contributing as a Vacation Bible School teacher for many years. Her faith guided her steps until her final days, as she found community at Iglesia Bautista Emmanuel and later at Houston’s First Baptist Church, while also attending Fellowship Church of Houston in her later years.

Her legacy of love, faith, and dedication will be remembered by the countless lives she touched. A visitation will be held at Houston Memorial Chapel on March 20, 2026, from 4 PM to 5 PM, followed by a funeral service celebrating her remarkable life at the same location from 5 PM to 6 PM.

Elizabeth Fresnillo Godinez will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and the communities she cherished so dearly.