Maria de la Luz ‘Lucy’ Phelan, Mother-In-Law Of Texas Gov, Dies

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Maria de la Luz "Lucy" Phelan, mother-in-law of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, has died. Phelan, who was featured in a number of television commercials that aired across Texas as Abbott was rising in the political world, died Saturday at her home in San Antonio. She was 86.

"I’m heartbroken to announce that the woman who became known as ‘mi suegra’ has passed away," Abbott said in a statement. "During my 39 years of marriage to her daughter, Maria de la Luz ‘Lucy’ Phelan has been a constant source of love, strength, and support, all of which were bolstered by her faith in God. A first generation American and long-time teacher, Lucy always provided a lens to see the future through the eyes of limitless opportunity."

Phelan was a first-generation America whose parents emigrated to Texas from Mexico.

"Her unending love was showered on family, friends, strangers, and even stray animals," Abbott said.

"She loved everyone."