Elias Sanchez Valerio

Rev. Elias S. Valerio of Watauga, Texas, joined his Lord and Savior on December 8, 2019 at the age of 85. Elias was born on November 11, 1934 in the state of Coahuila, Mexico to Crisostomo and Maria (Sanchez) Valerio.

He is preceded in death by his son, Benjamin Valerio; siblings Antonio Valerio, Francisca Solis, Martha Romero, Esther García and Ruth Villareal.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years; Carmel P. Valerio; sons Elias M. Valerio of Round Rock, Texas, Richard Valerio of Watauga, Texas; daughters Sally A. Gonzales and husband Israel of North Richland Hills, Texas and Sandra V. Penny and husband Troy of Grapevine, Texas. 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; siblings Raul Valerio and Minerva DeLeón, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving family members.

Rev. Elias Valerio was an ordained Southern Baptist Minister and pastored several churches during his 62 year tenure in the ministry including; La Joya and Gallop New Mexico and Crosbyton, Taylor, Lubbock, Nacogdoches and Watauga, Texas. Rev. Valerio also served as a missionary during the start of his ministry. Elias has touched many lives throughout his 62 years in the ministry and will always be remembered by those who’s lives were changed by the gospel he shared with them. Elias dedicated his life to serving the Lord through his ministry, sharing the gospel through his preaching and by his example.

On his spare time, Elias was an avid sports fan and loved watching his favorite team, the Texas Rangers. Elias also glorified the Lord through singing, piano, accordion and harmonica.

“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” Romans 14:8

“Pues si vivimos, para el Señor vivimos, y si morimos, para el Señor morimos. Sea que vivamos o que muramos, del Señor somos.” Romanos 14:8