Carolina J Rivas

Carolina Juarez Rivas, of Plains, TX, passed away on December 4, 2025.

Carolina was born on May 9, 1945, in Slaton, TX, to Gabriel and Isabella Juarez.

She married Fermin Rivas on April 19, 1966, and together they built a beautiful family and created a home filled with laughter, faith, and love.

Throughout her life, Carolina was known for her caring heart and her deep love for others. Her career as a nurse allowed her to express her compassion daily, offering comfort, kindness, and dignity to those she served. She continued to show that same generosity of spirit in her devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Carolina thrived on sharing her love of God through her acts of service, her warm connection to everyone she met, and her unwavering willingness to help whenever she was needed.

Carol was an active member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, devoting her time and energy to the local Plains community.

We’ll always imagine hearing her say her numerous catchphrases' including: “We’ll play it by ear,” “When it’s your time to go, it’s your time to go,” and “I’m not going to do jackcorn.”

Carol is survived by her three sons—Steve, Roger, and Gerry—and their wives, Mirta, Sandy, and Jennifer, who became beloved daughters-in-law. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Roddy and his wife, Christina, Miriam, Elli, and Rocco, Carol is also survived by her great-grandchildren—Julianna, Mila, and Ava— along with her bonus great-grandchildren, Hayden and Jael, all of whom brought her tremendous joy throughout her life.

Additionally, Carol is survived by her sister Eva.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Fermin, her siblings Valdemar, Joventina, Lucia, Jovita, Maria, and Gloria, and her nephews Rudy and Julian.

A funeral/memorial service/celebration of life will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 10:00 AM. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plains, with Father Raymundo Manriquez officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the Ratliff Funeral Home Chapel in Denver City. Rosary will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Ratliff Funeral Home Chapel in Denver City. Arrangements are under the direction of Ratliff Funeral Home in Denver City.

 Carol will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.