Holy Family Services

Sandra

Amy has been a part of Holy Family Services for many years. She started here as a Fellow in 2016.  Provided vacation coverage in 2017 & 2018.  She was the interim clinical director as well and has been a staff midwife since 2019. She accepted the role of clinical director last December.  She splits her time between the RGV and Fredericksburg where she has her own midwifery practice. Amy's goal with practicing midwifery is to serve the underserved and provide evidenced based care.  Her desire is for women to find the empowerment within themselves.  

my became a registered nurse in 1997 and worked in maternal child nursing (including labor and delivery) for 13 years. She attended and graduated from Frontier Nursing University with her MSN as a Certified Nurse Midwife in 2014.  Upon graduation (prior to joining Holy Family), she worked with a perinatology office providing care for high risk pregnancies in their preterm labor management program.  

Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending time with her family cooking, gardening, traveling, and wine tasting.

Diploma Nursing RN- 1997 Baptist school of Nursing San Antonio 

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 2009 Texas Tech 

Master of Science in Nursing 2014 Frontier Nursing University

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Simone

Anna is a nurse-midwife originally from Pennsylvania. She earned her BSN In 2016 Eastern University. She then lived in Guatemala at Lake Atitlán providing care in a rural maternity clinic and birth center, and then she went on to graduate with a Master of Nursing in Nurse Midwifery from Jefferson University in 2020. 

She has now been working for 4 years in the Rio Grande Valley. She originally came to Holy Family for the fellowship program as new graduate. She now works as a staff midwife at the birth center. She was also providing midwifery care to migrants seeking asylum at the Humanitarian Respite Center shelter before the border closed in February 2025. 

Anna lives with her husband, 4 year old son, and pets in the mid-valley. 

Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, Eastern University, 2016
MSN Nurse-Midwife, Jefferson University, 2020

Kayla Phelps is a Certified Nurse Midwife who brings both skill and heart to the families she serves. She earned her degree from Frontier Nursing University and has been practicing as a midwife for the past year. Prior to that, she spent six years working as a registered nurse in both birth center and hospital settings, gaining valuable experience in a variety of birth environments. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Kayla is passionate about providing personalized, empowering care that honors each woman’s unique birth journey.

Lori Gonzalez is a Licensed Vocational Nurse who has been caring for families at Holy Family for the past two years. A graduate of South Texas College in 2019, Lori’s journey with Holy Family began not as a nurse, but as a patient—an experience that inspired her to return as part of the care team.

Lori is a proud mom to one baby boy and a dog lover with a special rescue pup named Benji, who she adopted from the Holy Family property. Her compassion and firsthand understanding make her a trusted and valued presence in the clinic.

Vanessa

Lactation Consultant & Birth Assistant

Jessica Sargent first came to Holy Family 16 years ago as a young mother—and the peaceful, supportive birth she experienced left a lasting impact. Four years ago, she returned in a new role as a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and later expanded her care as a Birth Assistant.

With both professional training and personal experience, Jessica brings deep empathy and insight to the families she supports. She’s honored to walk alongside parents on their breastfeeding and birth journeys and is proud to be part of a team that truly values and nurtures families.

Hi there! I'm a nurse with a heart for women's care, deeply inspired by my experiences while completing my nursing degree in Mexico. Witnessing the lach of empathy new mothers often faced motivated me to be a voice for compassionate, respectful care for both moms and their babies. Today, I'm grateful to be part of a dedicated team working to improve women's healthcare and make a real difference where it matters most. When I'm not at work, you'll find me hanging out with my tow pups - Valentino, my sassy little chiweenie, and Oso, my high energy lovable corgi.

Marylu Castillo has been a dedicated member of the Holy Family team since 2011, serving as both Front Office Administrator and Medical Assistant. With over a decade of experience, she helps ensure that each family is welcomed and supported with kindness and efficiency.

Marylu is a devoted wife and proud mom of four. Her warm presence and commitment to service make her a vital part of the day-to-day care families receive at Holy Family.

Jessica Rojo began her journey with Holy Family in 2012 as a volunteer and has grown into her current role as Office Manager. With over a decade of dedication, she plays a vital part in keeping things running smoothly and supporting both staff and families with care and kindness.

A proud mom, Jessica loves spending time with her daughters and unwinding at the beach. She also shares her home with her beloved Yorkie, Nala. Her warmth and commitment make her a valued member of the Holy Family team.

Brandi Kennedy, originally from California, moved to the Valley in 2007. Her first experience with Holy Family was in 2010 with the birth of her son. After her transformative water birth she became a champion and supporter of Holy Family Services. She is a previous board member and spent twelve years working as a birth doula and childbirth educator before coming onboard in 2023 as the Practice Manager.  She earned her degree in Business Administration from California State University, Chico. She has two children and four fur babies. 

Elizabeth Reta has been a valued member of the Holy Family team for over eight years, serving as our Billing Coordinator. Born and raised in Donna, Texas, Elizabeth’s connection to Holy Family runs deep—she was first introduced to our center as a patient in 1998 when she welcomed her first child, delivered by a midwife. That experience helped spark her passion for women's health and supportive care.

Elizabeth holds a certificate as an Administrative Assistant and earned her Medical Coding Certification in 2015. She brings dedication, compassion, and attention to detail to her role, ensuring that each family's billing experience is handled with care and professionalism.

Outside of work, Elizabeth is a proud wife and mother, and she shares her home with her beloved dog, Diamond. Her journey from Holy Family patient to long-time team member reflects her deep commitment to the mission and values of the center.

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Lori Kerr is a devoted wife, proud mom of four, and passionate advocate for women and families. She earned her degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas–Pan American and brings both professional experience and heartfelt dedication to her role at Holy Family. Lori is committed to helping others feel informed, supported, and empowered—especially when it comes to compassionate, holistic care for women.

Maria Gamez has been serving families at Holy Family for six years as a trusted Community Health Worker and Promotora. Born and raised in Mexico, Maria brings heart, cultural understanding, and a deep commitment to community wellness. She is certified in diabetes management and passionate about helping families live healthier lives through education and support.

A devoted wife and proud mom of two, Maria connects with others through compassion, knowledge, and a shared commitment to family and well-being.

Maria Peña has been with Holy Family Birth Center since the very beginning—an incredible 41 years of dedicated service. As one of the original team members, Maria has played a vital role in supporting the mission and day-to-day operations of the center since its opening.

Born in Mercedes and now residing in Weslaco, Maria is deeply rooted in the Rio Grande Valley community. She is the proud mother of three children and is known among staff and clients alike for her steady presence, warm heart, and deep commitment to helping families feel welcomed and cared for.

Maria’s decades of service reflect her passion for Holy Family’s work and her belief in the power of compassionate, family-centered care.

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