Laura Ruiz (Barbosa), a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on July 5, 2025, in Texas, at the age of 75. Born on April 16, 1950, in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, Laura lived a life filled with love, grace, and resilience.

She was the heart of her family – a woman of incredible strength, kindness, and quiet courage. Known for her warm smile and boundless generosity, Laura had a gift for making everyone feel like family. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: preparing meals rich in tradition, crafting beautiful flower arrangements, and chatting with friends and strangers alike about her deep love for Mexican food and culture.

She is survived by her daughter, Hilda (Michael); her cherished grandchildren, Dylan and Isabella; her dear brothers, Cesar and Juan; her beloved sister, Tere (Miguel); her loving nieces, Celina, Melisa (Fernando), Claudia (Carlos), and Diana; her sweet nephew, Miguel Angel; and her treasured great-nieces and nephews, Austin, Gisele, Emilia, Sebastian, Robbie, and Cami – each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Laura was preceded in death by her loving mother, Aurora, and her beloved son, Ricardo “Callito,” whose memory she carried with strength and tenderness throughout her life.

Laura was deeply admired for always sharing what she had, for her courage in the face of hardship, and for her gift of conversation and laughter. She brought joy wherever she went and left an imprint of love and kindness on everyone she met. She lived by example – showing that true strength comes with grace and compassion.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Wesley Church, 3601 N. Lewis Ave, Waukegan, IL 60087, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember her beautiful life.

Laura’s presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who loved her.