Christina Velez Stamper January 21, 1980 – March 12, 2026
Christina Velez Stamper, a devoted educator, world traveler, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully at home on March 12, 2026. Born in Austin, Texas, on January 21, 1980, to Paul and Sally Velez, Christina was the matriarch of her siblings—a guiding light to her three brothers, Christopher, Greg (Catherine), and Thomas.
From her youth, Christina was defined by her curiosity and her roots. Whether she was attending church with her tight-knit family or visiting relatives in Harlingen and Mason, she was rarely seen without a book in hand. A gifted musician, she played French horn and piano, and scholar, she brought her talents to the Bowie High School and University of Texas at Austin marching bands. She graduated from UT with a degree in Liberal Arts and a minor in Ancient French Literature—a testament to her love for culture and history. Hook ‘em Horns.
Just before graduating, Christina married the love of her life, Tae. Over twenty-four years of marriage, they built a life of adventure. Christina’s wanderlust took them across the globe—from the food markets of Oaxaca and Barcelona to the historic streets of Lisbon. An adventurous eater, she delighted in everything from French escargot to “moving” hot pot in China, even encouraging Tae to speak Spanish so they could better navigate the interior of Mexico together. – despite her fluency.
Christina was a woman of unmistakable style. She was often heard before she was seen, heralded by the rhythmic “staccato” click of her signature high heels. A lover of vintage dresses, big hats, and bold jewelry (a love her mother gave her), she moved through the world in shades of purple and a classic splash of red lipstick.
Professionally, Christina’s heart belonged to the classroom. After earning her Master’s in Education from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, she became a powerhouse in her district, eventually being named Teacher of the Year. Whether teaching STEM or the intricacies of the U.S. Constitution, she taught with passion and a Beatles soundtrack playing in the background. She didn’t just teach subjects; she cared deeply for the citizens she was helping her students become. She also walked what she taught, attending protests for rights and being a union representative in her school.
In her final years, Christina showed the same tenacity she applied to her studies. Though diagnosed with lung cancer and given three years to live, she defied the odds for eight years, gifting her family five extra years of memories. She was taken too soon, but the “staccato click” of her legacy will echo in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many students she inspired.
Mrs. Stamper was my son’s 5th grade teacher, her last year teaching 5th grade. She was such a kind and wonderful teacher. The news of her passing was heartbreaking for our son. Rest In Peace and you will forever be a beautiful part of my son’s childhood.
Mrs. Stamper was my son’s 4th grade teacher. She was one of the best. Caring dedicated patient and kind. Loved her beautiful smile and style. She is deeply missed by many. Especially Noah.
Ms.Stamper was my little sisters 4th grade teacher and a teacher when I went to central. my sister loved her so much, she would always make drawings for her, she would stay up all night so she could finish. I always remember her pretty high heels and her long purple dresses, I would always look at her and want to be just like her. she would always give every student tough love, that was her way to show affection. she was one of the best teacher any little kid could ask for, she’s the kind of teacher that you could never forget about. she will be missed so much by all her students.
When I started at Central Elementary Christina was one the most inclusive and kind staff. Always with a smile, a knowing nod or a deep breath of understanding. I was excited everyday to see what our very own Ms. Frizz would have on or planned for the kids. Her fashion knew no limit and her personality radiated that awesomeness. 👑
When I started at Central 12 yrs ago Christina was the one person who stood out the most to me. She had such a beautiful soul and would light up the building with her incredible outfits, smiles and kindness. She always made everyone smile and feel welcome. My heart hurts and will miss her
Ms. Stamper was my fifth grade teacher. She had the best fashion sense. While at the time she seemed strict, she did an amazing job preparing us for middle school. She always talked and laughed with the other teachers. She has defiantly been one of the best teachers I’ve ever had.
Mrs. Stamper was my 5th grade teacher. She was a bright and unforgettable teacher who shaped her students in lasting ways. Though she was strict, it came from a place of deep care and belief in who we could become. She challenged us, opened doors we didn’t know were there, and helped us grow with confidence.
She had a gift for seeing each student’s true potential. I will always remember when she read my writing and told me I could be an author. In that moment, she helped me believe in myself, just as she did for so many others.
She was a blessing to all of us, and her impact will live on in every student she taught and believed in. I hope her family knows how deeply she was loved, and how proud they should be to know they knew someone who made such greatness and who empowered others to be who they wanted to be. Mrs. Stamper with never be forgotten.
Mrs. Stamper was my 5th grade teacher. She was a bright and unforgettable teacher who shaped her students in lasting ways. Though she was strict, it came from a place of deep care and belief in who we could become. She challenged us, opened doors we didn’t know were there, and helped us grow with confidence.
She had a gift for seeing each student’s true potential. I will always remember when she read my writing and told me I could be an author. In that moment, she helped me believe in myself, just as she did for so many others.
She was a blessing to all of us, and her impact will live on in every student she taught and believed in. I hope her family knows how deeply she was loved, and how proud they should be to know just how many lives Mrs. Stamper helped. She will never be forgotten.
From Hazel:
Mrs. Stamper was my fifth grade and one of my favorite teachers. She was such an important part of our community and of many, many past and present students life’s. She was loved by many, and I will always remember her as the superhero that she was.
From Heath:
Mrs. Stamper was my fourth grade teacher. She was a great teacher and also was one of my favorite teachers. I am grateful for all the time that I had with her. She was so nice, and the perfect example of a great teacher. She loved the Beatles and Star Wars.
I had student taught with her for a semester back in 2017 and I learned so many amazing strategies from her. Just this past week I began implementing one of the government units she taught when I was there. She had been on my mind all this week.
Just today I heard of her passing and I am recognizing how strong her energy and spirit are to have reached me. She will truly be missed by many who surrounded her. My condolences to her family, friends, and coworkers.
Mrs. Stamper was a stylish teacher she always wore beautiful dresses and high heels her smile was contagious and she made many people laugh I hope she rests well and I hope one day I get to see her again – Orin Casias 6th Grade.