Francisco Chavez Sr.

Mr. Chavez was born in Mercedes, Texas and was a long time resident of Brownsville. He served in the military during World War II and Korea. He flew many years with Pan American Airways and went on to work for the U.S. Post Office from which he retired, although his fondest and lasting memories were those with Pan American.

“Our father was a very loving and caring man. He was a gentle soul that made you feel so loved. He was always our strength and support. We will miss him dearly. We were deeply blessed to have had him in our lives.”

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonardo Chavez and Ciria Castaneda; sons, Joel Chavez and Rudolph Chavez; grandsons, Andrew Chavez and Rudolph Chavez, Jr.; brothers, Noe and Rodolfo Chavez; sister, Irma (Vernon) Skipper.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Celia Ayala Chavez; daughter, Delma (Steve) Tullos; sons, Leo (Anna) Chavez, Frank, Jr. (Terry) Chavez, Noe (Diana) Chavez, Roel (Lupita) Chavez; sister, Angie (Lupe) Garcia; daughters in law; Belen and Lucy Chavez; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 10 am to 9pm with the recitation of the Rosary at 7pm on Friday, September 2, 2011 at Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista.

Mass of the Resurrection will be at 10 am on Saturday, September 3, 2011 at St. Joseph Church, 555 W. Saint Francis St., Brownsville, Texas with committal service to follow at Buena Vista Burial Park.

Serving as pallbearers will be grandsons; Dean Chavez, Michael Chavez, Francisco Chavez III, Noe Lee Chavez, Adrian Chavez, Allen Michael Chavez and Roel Chavez, Jr.

You may view the obituary, sign the guestbook, and send your condolences online to Francisco’s family at www.funerariadelangelbuenavista.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista, Cemetery and Mausoleum. 125 McDavitt Blvd., Brownsville, Tx 78521 (956) 541-5400. Dignity Memorial Provider.