Manuela Diaz

Nelly was a beloved Mother, Mother-in-law, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and so much more. After a courageous battle with breast cancer for a third time, Nelly left us peacefully on June 01, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones.

Manuela “Nelly” Diaz, 75, was born November 25, 1949 in Haskell, Texas to Ramon and Felisitas “Licha” Sosa. She is survived by her sisters Silvia Flores, and Ramona Sosa, her son Jesse M Diaz, daughter Jennifer Flores, and her husband Cande Flores Jr., son Ramon Diaz, his wife Ginger Diaz. Grandchildren: Alicia Diaz, Britney Diaz (Clarence Brown Jr.), Jesse Diaz (Angelica), Isaac Diaz, Drew Flores (Lucy), Cameron Flores, Mia Flores, Bradie Flores, Madison Diaz and Emerson Diaz. She has twelve great grandchildren with one on the way. She also had many nieces and nephews who adored her greatly.

Nelly attended Abilene High School and McMurry College. She worked for Texas Instruments for 15 years as an instructor for the US Government. Nelly was dedicated and had a passion for helping others. She fostered many children for over 20 years. She obtained her paralegal license and spent 25 plus years working for the United States Immigration and Naturalization. She helped 4000 plus immigrant families obtain their legal permanent residents and naturalized citizenship to the United States. She taught ESL, adult education and religious education. She also received the Women of Outstanding Achievement award in 2011.

Nelly was a woman of God who was strong in her faith. She was a lifelong member of St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church, where she was a member of the choir, and a cantor for many years. She loved spending time with her family. Nelly hosted many family Christmas’, holidays, birthday parties, and family cookouts in her home. Nelly loved to sing and dance. She loved to wear a sparkle, the brighter the better for her. She had a very distinctive style and a love for anything leopard print. Her motto was “Shop till you drop!” She will be greatly missed

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ramon Sosa and Felisitas Sosa, her brother Santos Sosa, and her nephew Stephen Ornelas.