Vicki Gay Eckenrode

Vicki Gay Eckenrode, 72, of Alice, Texas and the Rio Grande Valley, entered into eternal rest on August 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on December 3, 1952 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Vicki lived a life defined by strength, loyalty, and a fierce love for those closest to her.

She built a career she was proud of, working for Loomis International and later spending 19 years with D. Wilson Construction until her retirement in 2023. Known for her dedication and hard work, Vicki earned the respect of her colleagues and made lifelong friendships along the way.

Vicki faced life's hardest battles with unmatched courage. She fought cancer not once, but twice with success. Even in her final days, her resilience and determination never wavered. To those who knew her, she was a fighter, an encourager, and a constant reminder of the power of perseverance.

Beyond her work and her battles, Vicki's true legacy is her family. She cherished every role she held -- sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend. Her laughter, honesty, and steadfast presence created memories that her loved ones will carry forever. She leaves behind not just her family, but a lasting impact of unconditional love and strength.

She is proceeded in death by her loving partner, Richard Smith; her fur-baby, Shiloh, her mother-in-law, Betty Riley; brother-in-law, Irvan Pierce; great-nephew, Ace Coen Jentsch; and her parents, Joyce and William Eckenrode.

Vicki is survived by her brother Cory (Denise) Eckenrode ; her sister, Denise Pierce; and many nieces and nephews whom she dearly loved: Amber (John) Jentsch, Ashley Eckenrode, Abigail (Augie) Alvarado, Andrew Eckenrode; one niece whom she considered a daughter, Shannon Little; stepdaughter, Stephanie (Chris) Ruble; great-nieces: Carley (Bianca) Garcia, and Caitlyn (Dillon) Roberts. She is also survived by her great-great nieces and nephew, Addilee Placencio, Bailee Placencio, Blake Garcia, Mycah Ortiz-Garcia, Bentley Clegg, and Everleigh Roberts. Each of them was a source of pride and joy in her life.

To honor Vicki's life, honorary pallbearers will be Cory Eckenrode and Dillon Roberts.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Vicki's spirit will live on in the strength of her family and the countless lives she touched. Her story is not one of loss, but of love, perseverance, and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 6:30 PM  followed by a Chapel Service on Friday, September 5, 2025 at Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 E. Main Street, Alice, Texas. Burial will take place at 2:00PM on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Highland Memorial Park, 6705 FM 88, Weslaco, Texas.

Arrangements are entrusted to Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 E. Main St, Alice, Texas.

Condolences for the family may be offered at www.holmgreenmortuaryinc.com and shared via Holmgreen Facebook. 

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