Orlando Tirado Gardon

Orlando Tirado Gardon, 76, of Killeen, Texas, passed away in the early morning of May 6, 2026. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Orlando retired after more than 20 years of service which was his greatest achievement, including serving 2 tours during the Vietnam War.

Born on August 25, 1949, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Orlando carried his heritage with him everywhere he went whether he was playing dominoes with his beloved Puerto Rico set, sharing stories about the Island, or pulling family and friends onto the dance floor whenever salsa music played, Orlando’s love for his culture was unmistakable.

Orlando was a staple in the community. Everyone at his grandkids’ elementary school referred to him as Abuelo because he was everyone’s grandpa. He was heavily involved in his church’s community. He attended several services a week and taught Catechism classes for children. He volunteered as a chaplain with J.A.I.L ministries. He would also give anyone in the neighborhood pears from his pear tree if they asked for them. Those who knew Orlando will remember his unmistakable laugh, his warmth, and his unwavering willingness to help others. He was the kind of man who always showed up and made sure everyone around him was cared for.

Above all, Orlando was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He married the love of his life, Lilia Tirado Castro, on January 8, 1973, and together they built a loving family over 53 years of marriage.

Orlando is survived by his beloved wife, Lilia Tirado; his son, Felix Tirado; his daughter, Sheilah Burfict and her husband Dominic Burfict; his daughter-in-law Romelia Tirado; and his seven cherished grandchildren: Alyssia Tirado-Booth and her husband Kevin Booth, Isabel Burfict, Damion Tirado, Dominic Burfict, Novalee Tirado, Amya Tirado-White, and Fernanda Tirado-Leon.

He was preceded in death by his son, Orlando Tirado Jr., who passed away on August 25, 2024.

He also leaves behind the memory and legacy of his parents, Felix Tirado and Ramona Gardon.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 South Fort Hood Road, Killeen, Texas, with a Prayer Service from 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 2903 E. Rancier Avenue, Killeen, Texas.

A Committal Service with military honors will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 11463 TX-195, Killeen, Texas.

Arrangements are under the care of Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Killeen, Texas.