Dora Lara-Salas

Dora Alicia Lara - Salas passed away unexpectedly on January 15, 2025 at her home in Abilene, Tx. She was born on January 26, 1971 in Laredo, TX to Jose and Olga Lara. Dora was the second oldest of 6 siblings and first generation Mexican-American. She is survived by her parents, Jose and Olga Lara of Abilene, TX; Her older sister, Olga Santana- Lara of Abilene, Tx; Her younger siblings, Jose Angel Lara of Fort Worth, TX, Maria and Brian Benton of Keller, TX, David and Kim Lara of Knoxville, TN, and her baby sister, Gabriela Lara of Abilene, TX; She leaves behind many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly.

She will be greatly missed by her 3 beloved children, Jeanette Devora, Antonio Devora Jr. and daughter-in-law Alexis Gonzales, and son, Jose Antonio Devora all of Abilene, TX; her 3 grandchildren, Jayályn Nyéma Anderson-Devora, Anthony Aaron Devora, and Aazon Lucas Devora; all of who brought her so much joy on this earth and she will forever love. Dora was an animal lover with eclectic pets that she referred to as her "little zoo". Polly the Cockatiel, Tina the Box Turtle, Peaches her Chihuahua, Betty and Niño her Pit-bulls, and La Bonita her baby Maltese mix.

She is proceeded in death by her grandmother, "Abuelita Tina" Augustina Lara, her grandfather and grandmother, Nicolas and Maria Esperanza Escobedo; who Dora said she would rejoice in the day they embraced again.

Dora was known for her love of music, dancing cumbias, singing Spanish gospel, R&B, her bling bling outfits, beautiful crochet creations, and her chicken flautas. Whether she was singing Selena at karaoke or singing in church with family, her talented voice along with her unique charisma was infectious. She believed in growing her skills by going back to school to gain her GED at the age of 30 after dropping out at 13 to be married and a young mother. She then proceeded to earn certifications/licenses in Accounting/Bookingkeeping, Cosmetology, and Medical Billing Coding Technician. She took pride in honing many creative and artistic skills. Dora had a gift of being able to make any space she was in feel like home. She brought color and lit up every room when she walked in. She remained humble to her roots, always proud, and true to her adventurous free spirit.