[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13337]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO YOLANDA URBY URRABAZO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 21, 2016

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of one 
of Laredo's finest teachers, Yolanda Urby Urrabazo.
  Mrs. Urrabazo was born on February 12th 1947 to Juan and Carolina 
Urby in Del Rio, Texas. She was considered a miracle baby due to being 
born ten years after her nine siblings. Although her first language was 
Spanish, she quickly learned English and excelled in her studies. She 
received her bachelor's degree from Texas Women's University and then a 
master's degree in Spanish literature from The University of Texas-El 
Paso. This enthusiasm for literature eventually led her to United High 
School in Laredo, Texas where she taught English literature for 32 
years.
  Yolanda's devotion to her students is shown by her long and 
passionate career in teaching. For over three decades she dedicated her 
life to educating generations of students. This commitment to education 
is an inspiration, and serves as a reminder for how important educators 
are. Her dedication to serving others will not be forgotten and will 
serve as a testament to what we should all strive for.
  Mrs. Urrabazo is survived by her husband Ignacio, seven children, six 
grandchildren, and five siblings. Her legacy will live on in the 
countless people she helped shape. The mentoring and guidance that she 
provided will be shown throughout the community she touched. I have 
personally seen her impact through the great work her daughters Yolanda 
and Claudia provided when they worked in my office. It was clear 
through their hard work and ability that their mother had taught them 
very well. She serves as a reminder for how much one person can do to 
affect so many lives. The city of Laredo will miss her and cherish the 
kindness and care that she brought.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the opportunity to remember the 
legacy of Yolanda Urby Urrabazo.

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