Maria Meras

Maria Belen Meras, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and dedicated community servant, passed away in her sleep on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at her home in Stephenville, Texas. She was 70 years old.

Born in San Saba, Texas, to Ramiro Martinez and Andrea Coronado, Maria grew up with strong ties to her Central Texas roots. She was a proud graduate of Stephenville High School's Class of 1973. Over the years, she built a rich life across several communities, including Gorman, Eastland, and Stephenville.

In her early adulthood, Maria demonstrated her industrious nature working as a skilled seamstress while lovingly raising her two children. Her commitment to education and community then led her to a two-decade-long career with the Stephenville Independent School District (SISD). During this time, she was a true pillar of support, serving in vital roles as a bilingual aide, summer school migrant teacher, school secretary, and parent-teacher liaison. Maria also volunteered to teach English and computer skills to migrant parents. She was known for bridging gaps and ensuring every student and family felt seen and supported.

As a devoted member of St. Brendan’s Catholic Church, Maria generously gave her time and talent, serving as a leader for several CCD classes. She also utilized her organizational skills to help plan and coordinate countless significant life events including many baby showers, quinceañeras, and weddings.

For the last 15 years of her life, Maria was a dedicated and much-loved professional in the quarter horse community. She served as the Director of Circulation and Accounting for TRACK magazine, where her precision, diligence, and vivid personality made her an invaluable member of the team.

Maria’s greatest source of pride was her family. She is survived by her son, Nicasio (Nico) Meras, of Stephenville, Texas; and her daughter and son-in-law, Talia and Tim Gaston, along with her grandsons, Trey and Tate Gaston, all of McKinney, Texas.

She also leaves behind a large, supportive extended family: her siblings, Dario Jimenez (Orange Grove, TX), Javier Jimenez (San Saba, TX), Jose Jimenez (San Saba, TX), Sonia Birdwell (Anna, TX), and Alex Jimenez (San Saba, TX). Maria was a beloved tía and madrina, also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren, and cousins, all of whom benefited from her wisdom and unconditional love.

Maria Belen Meras will be remembered for her selfless dedication to others, her unwavering faith, and her content spirit. Her legacy is one of service, family, and a life lived fully for her community.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to “White Horse Christian Academy” with the note of “In Honor of Maria Meras”, an organization close to Maria's heart." https://www.whitehorseca.com/support  1155 CR 177 Stephenville, Tx 76401.