EDINBURG, TX - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of J&D/Little Bear Produce’s Yvonne Morales, who has played a vital role in the company and has left an indelible impact on the industry.

Morales was instrumental in the daily operations of J&D Produce since 1988, serving as a trusted right hand to Jimmy Bassetti, Co-Owner and President, and his wife Diane. She was widely known throughout the fresh produce sector and was loved by many, especially J&D’s customers, growers, vendors, and suppliers.

“My wife Diane and I are truly heartsick over the sudden loss of Yvonne. She has been part of our Little Bear family for 35 years. She was with us nearly every step of the way, not only as we built our business but as we raised our family. She was a wonderful person and had a unique way of making people feel very special,” said Jimmy Bassetti. “Our hearts are hurting, and we are praying for Yvonne’s family and loved ones. Although she will be dearly missed, we find solace in knowing that she is at peace with our Lord above.”

She was born on May 24, 1953, in Laredo, Texas, and raised in Monte Alto, Texas, living a full and busy life in the Rio Grande Valley. She loved God, family, music, and friends. She was well-known and respected in her local community and was a deeply devoted member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elsa, Texas.

Yvonne is survived by her husband, Daniel A. Morales, stepchildren Antonio (Monica) and Daniel A. Morales Jr., four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren; her brothers Jose Samuel Benavidez Jr. (Irma), Jefferey Lee Benavidez Sr. (Josie); her nieces Laura Benavidez-Diaz (Jorge), Samantha Jo Benavidez, Georgina Lee Benavidez-Sauceda (Paul), and nephew Jefferey Lee Benavidez Jr. “Elo”; great-nieces, Destany Coronado, Heavenleigh Coronado, and Eleanor Jolee Diaz; and great-nephew Matthew Coronado.

Services will be held at Memorial Funeral Home, 208 E. Canton in Edinburg, with visitation planned for Sunday, June 25, from 5 p.m.–8 p.m., a rosary at 6 p.m., and funeral services on Monday, June 26, at 10 a.m. Entombment will occur at Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco, Texas, immediately following the funeral.

Our thoughts are with those grieving this tremendous loss.