Raul Garza

Mr. Raul Garza

July 4, 1929-May 6, 2022

Mr. Raul Garza (92) “Faith, Courage, Service True, With Honor, Over Honor, Overall.”

Went to his eternal resting place on Friday, May 6, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.  Raul was born on July 4, 1929 in Laredo, Texas to +Miguel and +Felicitas Alonzo Garza. Raul was a proud Laredoan; he graduated from Laredo High School (1947) and attended Laredo Jr. College. He then answered the call of duty and joined the US Navy on February 11, 1948, where he proudly served with distinction as an E-3 Seaman until his honorable discharge January 17, 1952. He was honored and proud of his Korean Service Medal, China Service Medal, and UN Recognition.

After Raul’s tour of duty, he continued to serve his country proudly and worked with the Army and Air Force Exchange Service positions, at both Laredo Air Force Base and Lackland Air Force Base where he ultimately retired on December 31, 1987. One of Raul’s greatest attributes was his work ethic. He then went to work for Dillard’s department store for more than 10 years and retired at the young age of 80. His colleagues fondly referred to him as Mr. G., and they so appreciated his friendship and guidance. Raul was a devout catholic and a man of dignity and respect. He appreciated everyone’s gifts and was always ready to offer a helping hand. His wisdom came from his experiences and his kindness came from his heart.

Raul was most proud of his family and is survived by the love of his life Manuela “Nena” Rodriguez-Garza, married 66 years; Children: Raul (Patsy) Garza Jr., Cynthia G. Giddens, and Lisa Michelle (Henry) Miller; his Grandchildren: Leah M. Garza (Brandon) Burke, Raul Garza III, Ashley N. (Adrian) Galarza, Andrew J. Miller, Katherine A. (Thomas) Clark, Brian A. Miller, and Lauren E. Giddens; Great Grandchild: Thomas R. Clark Jr. and Family Friend: Maria De Jesus “Chita” Montoya.

His life revolved around his children and grandchildren. Known to his grandchildren as “Ito”, he was actively involved in their extracurricular activities, daily mentorship and upbringing. As adults he continued to support his family with his laughter, advice, and loving conversations. He took pride to make sure his children and grandchildren were happy and understood the value of family and work.

Raul often shared stories about his own childhood and siblings, some who too have gone to their eternal rest; +Concepcion Garza, +Victor (+Margarita) Garza, +Genaro & Beatriz Garza, +Francisca (+Jose) Martinez, +Virginia Garza, +Liliana Garza, +Luis (Maria) Garza, +Maria del Refugio Garza, +Tomas Garza, +Antonio (+Felipa) Garza.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at Joe Jackson Heights Funeral and Cremation Services, 719 N. Loring Ave. beginning at 8:30 a.m.  A rosary will be recited at 9:00 a.m. followed by a procession to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church where a mass will be held at 11:00 a.m.

An inurnment will follow at the City of Laredo Cemetery.  Military honors will be provided by the US Navy and the Local Post 59.

Pallbearers: Raul Garza Jr., Raul Garza III, Andrew J. Miller, Brian A. Miller, Henry A. Miller, Brandon Burke, Pete Bustamante, and Ernie Giddens.

To honor Raul, donations may be made to the Periwinkle Foundation.org (providing a community of healing for children with cancer and other life-threating illnesses through emotional-healing camps, arts, and survivor programs) or Laredo Educational Autism Foundation (LEAF).

A special thanks to Dr. Luis Benavides, Ricardo Salinas and staff, Laredo Premier Healthcare, Superior Nursing Care, and Nurses on Wheels.

A heartfelt thanks to Caregiver Cipriana “Nena” Osorio, for her unconditional love and support.

“Fair winds and following seas, shipmate. We have the watch. Bless Him.”

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 Heights Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 719 Loring at Cortez, Laredo, Texas 78040; (956)722-0001.