LEAGUE CITY, Texas – Dozens of family members, friends and community members gathered Sunday night to remember Luz Mary Pelaez, a beloved teacher and nanny who was killed in a stabbing at her League City home Friday.
Pelaez’s husband, Raul Uribe, was also stabbed and remains in recovery, according to loved ones.
League City police identified the couple’s 33-year-old son, Juan Uribe Pelaez, as the suspect. He is charged with murder and aggravated assault, and police say his bond was set at a total of $500,000.
A life defined by service
Sunday’s candlelight vigil was held at Oaks of Clear Creek, where friends say Uribe regularly gives tennis lessons.
As attendees prayed for his recovery, they remembered Mary as a selfless woman who devoted much of her life to caring for others.
Her first name, Luz, means “light” in Spanish. Those who knew her said the name reflected the kindness and warmth she brought into their lives.
“She was just a beautiful person from the inside out,” Tara Hardy said.
Hardy said Mary worked as her family’s nanny for three years but quickly became part of the family.
“She never demanded anything back from anybody,” Hardy said. “It was just pure, genuine love and just devotion to children, to giving back.”
Hardy said Mary was a longtime educator who worked with children with special needs. She said Mary also volunteered extensively through her church and community.
Pastor Rudy Molina of Lifeway Church told those gathered that the church was there to support them through their grief.
“We’re here to just be here for the community,” Molina said. “We’re here to love on you all.”
Police say couple’s son attacked them
League City police responded at about 7 p.m. Friday to a home near Highway 3 and Washington Street.
Officers said they found a husband and wife suffering from multiple stab wounds. Mary later died from her injuries, while Raul survived.
Police identified the couple’s son, Juan Uribe Pelaez, as the person accused of attacking them.
He remains charged with murder in connection with his mother’s death and aggravated assault in connection with his father’s injuries.
Hardy said Mary’s impact could be seen in the number of people who attended the vigil, including strangers who never met her.
“She was part of our family,” Hardy said. “We really just want her to be remembered and not forgotten for her kindness and her love.”