Hector Rocha

Hector Rocha

October 16, 1927- October 26, 2024

Hector Rocha Sr., a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, peacefully entered eternal rest on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on October 16, 1927, Hector’s life was distinguished by his unwavering dedication to family, community, and athletic excellence.

A 1946 graduate of Martin High School, Hector was widely celebrated for his athletic achievements. Known for his exceptional skill in sports, he was named an All-District running back and earned All-State Honorable Mention, as awarded by the Texas Sports Writers Association and Texas Coaches Association. Upon graduation, Hector was recruited by the University of Arkansas to play football. However, he had already committed to serving in the military. Beyond football, Hector’s talent shone on the track field, where he set a regional record with a remarkable 880-yard dash time of 2:08 and competed fiercely in the mile-relay. His classmates recognized his dedication and achievements by naming him “Best Athlete” in the senior yearbook.

After high school, Hector enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving his country honorably until 1948. He went on to a fulfilling career in Civil Service at the Laredo Air Force Base, retiring in 1974.

Hector shared his life with his devoted wife, Hermelinda, with whom he raised one son, Hector Jr. An avid sports fan, rancher, and outdoorsman, he remained an enthusiastic supporter of his grandchildren’s educational and athletic endeavors. His kindness, spirit, and dedication to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hermelinda Leal Rocha; his parents, Joel and Guadalupe Rocha; his siblings, Joel Rocha, Jr., Juan Rocha, Maria Rocha Mosher, and Hilario Rocha; sister-in-law, Elia Leal Biggs; parents-in-law, Fermin Leal and Geovanina Gonzalez.

Left to cherish his memory is his son, Hector (Ida) Rocha, Jr.; his grandchildren, Hector (Ashley) Rocha, III., Michelle H. Rocha, Cristina (Ting) Chang, Melinda (Alex) Alcorta, and Michael (Dalia) Rocha; 9 great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Edna Leal Moon; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Sunday evening, November 3, 2024 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Monday morning, November 4, 2024 departing at 10:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to San Martin de Porres Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the family plot of the Calvary Catholic Cemetery with Military Honors presented by the U.S. Marine Corps and the Laredo Veterans Honor Guard. 

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.