JANIE VILLANUEVA
Janie Fuentes Villanueva, affectionately known as 'Mimi,' passed from this life on Jan. 29, 2026, in Levelland, Texas. Born on July 7, 1951, in Michigan, and lived most of her life in the Levelland and Whitharral areas.
Janie led a life filled with love, joy and an unwavering commitment to her family and faith. She worked at Levelland Christian School, where she touched the lives of many with her warmth and dedication. Janie was a devout Catholic, finding her greatest happiness when her entire family gathered to attend mass together.
Her passion for life was evident in everything she did, from her love of dance and the Dallas Cowboys, to her excitement for playing bingo and visiting the casinos. She cherished traveling with her grandchildren and relished in the joy of cooking and baking, particularly during the holiday season. Family gatherings were a highlight of her life, where her infectious spirit and loving presence could be felt by all. She is survived by her beloved husband, Joe Villanueva; daughter, Oralia Smith and husband, Sonny; sons, Joe Villanueva, Steve Villanueva and wife, Laurie; daughter, Ida Waddell and husband, Chad; daughter, Nancy Villanueva; Janie’s legacy continues through her grandsons, Aaron Smith, Justin Waddell, and wife, Jade, and Jace Waddell; granddaughters, Whitney Gibson and husband, Josh, Courtney Villanueva, Bobbie Waddell, Lexi Villanueva; grandson, Jamie Bassett; she also leaves behind her greatgrandchildren, Rylan, Addi, Noah, Harper, Weldon, and Emmitt ; along with two sisters, four brothers, 17 brothers and sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Janie was preceded in death by her parents, Justo and Diamantina Fuentes; her granddaughter, Stephanie Lynn Smith; her brother, Celedonio Fuentes; her sisters, Maria Munoz and Oralia Elizardo; her father and mother-in-law, Jose and Natividad Villanueva; and her brother-in-law, Jesse Villanueva.
Recitation of the Holy Rosary was held at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 1, and again on Monday, Feb. 2, in the Chapel of Krestridge Funeral Home, 505 Austin Street, Levelland, Texas 79336.
A funeral mass was held in her honor on Feb. 3, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 316 E Washington St, Levelland, TX 79336, starting at 11 a.m with interment to follow in the City of Levelland Cemetery.
Mimi will be remembered as a great person who was loved by so many. Her joy and spirit will remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Services with integrity, pride, and honor are under the direction of Krestridge Funeral Home. (806) 8971111.