Laura Cartagena

   Laura Esther Cartagena, 32, of Bellville, Texas, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20,

2026 after an arduous 2 year battle against cancer. She was born on April 29, 1994 to her

parents, Heriberto Martinez and Ana Guadalupe Martinez. Laura was engaged to be married to

her fiance, Alvaro Castillo. She is survived by her parents, fiancé, siblings: Juan Jose

Cartagena, Cristal Romero, and Jonathan Martinez, nephew, Julio Cesar Romero Jr., and

brother-in-law, Julio Cesar Romero. She has left an immense sorrow amongst the numerous

friendships she established through her childhood, career, church, social platforms, and mutual

friends and family.

   Graduated from Bellville High School in year 2012, she later went on to further her education at

Blinn College while simultaneously working for Wells Fargo of Brenham, Texas, and achieving a

position as ‘Branch Operations Manager’. As her career with Wells Fargo came to an end -by

choice in 2024, she quickly transitioned into a new career in insurance sales after passing the

state exam with ease and acquiring her insurance license shortly thereafter. This ultimately

landed her a new career opportunity at BenRoll in Bellville, Texas, through the encouragement

and recommendation of her highly esteemed and close friend, Elda Lopez. BenRoll became an

avenue of lifelong friendships for Laura- more like family. Her devotion to BenRoll as ‘VP of

Enrollment Services’ reflects what an outstanding company it is that employed her. Laura

leaves an empty desk at BenRoll, and a massive void in their hearts as they awaited for her

return.

   Laura’s artistic personality came to life through countless birthday parties she so lovingly

embellished with decor and balloons. She selflessly loved her family and friends, as she made

sure everyone’s birthday was made special by her very own hands. Her adventurous spirit is

evident in her vast photo gallery- she captured every moment that meant something to her. Her

loving kindness will be a permanent life lesson to those who witnessed her generosity towards

the homeless, and her radiant smile will be forever engraved in the memory of everyone who

loves her. Her faith in Jesus kept her fighting for her life, but her love for Jesus ultimately called

her home.