Dora Estelle Otero

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dora Estelle Otero, 87, of Schertz, Texas on January 16, 2025, due to complications of dementia. Dora was born on December 19, 1937, in the borough of Manhattan, New York City, New York, to her parents Victor and Gloria G. Cordero. Whether she was known as Mom, Nana, or Ms. Dora, her warm personality and loving spirit touched the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Dora and her husband, Richard, met while attending a high school graduation dance. They married a year later on September 5, 1953. Together they raised three children while living in New York, Maine, Philippines, Kansas, Nebraska, Libya (North Africa), and Texas. They moved to Universal City, Texas in 1969 and eventually to Schertz, Texas in 1995.

Growing up in New York, Dora attended Catholic school, played handball at the local playgrounds, worked for Hearns Department Store to help support her family, enjoyed dancing at the Palladium Ballroom with her sister Emma, and visited the Hunt’s Point Palace to listen to music from “Mambo King” Tito Puente, Machito, and many other Puerto Rican and Cuban musicians.

In the course of her life, Dora was always working to help make a better life for the family. First, at various military Base Exchanges, then as the first store manager for McDonald’s in Universal City where she continued to work for 15 years. She was also a Catalog Order Specialist with Sears for another 15 years. Dora was an avid athlete and enjoyed participating in many activities including swimming, softball, and bowling, often teaching her children those same skills. She especially loved music and all varieties of dance including salsa and merengue from her Puerto Rican heritage to Texas square dancing. She truly enjoyed creating things with her hands whether it be through sewing, ceramics, or making rosaries. Dora’s good-hearted nature and bright smile were often seen while participating in activities for the NCO Wives Clubs, the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, and the Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Schertz. She was also a member of the Eucharistic Apostles of the Divine Mercy. Dora’s spiritual focus led her to participate in several missions to Cartago, Costa Rica; Lourdes, France; Fatima, Portugal; and Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina. May she rest in peace knowing that she was truly treasured by all who knew her.

Dora was preceded in death by loved ones who have now reunited with her. She joins her parents Victor and Gloria G. Cordero; brothers Victor II and Joseph Cordero; sister Emma DiStefano; and nephew Victor Cordero III. She is survived by her husband of 71 years Richard; son Richard Jr. (Marie); daughters Dawn (Fred) and Debra; 7 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and countless beloved extended family members and friends. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a Dementia or Alzheimer’s organization in Dora’s honor.