Emilio Solis, lovingly known as “Mel” to his friends, passed away peacefully at home in New Braunfels, Texas, on June 10, 2025, at the age of 91. He had recently celebrated his birthday on Cinco de Mayo, a day that held both cultural and personal significance for him.
Mel was born on May 5, 1934, in Donna, Texas. He spent most of his life in Houston before moving to McKinney, Texas, to be closer to his daughter Carol Vasquez and her family. In his final years, he made a peaceful home in New Braunfels, surrounded by the nature he loved and the family who cherished him.
Mel was preceded in death by his first wife, Guillerma Solis (2000), his beloved children Freddie Solis and Patricia Kilgore, and his siblings Martin Solis and Frances Elizondo.
He is survived by his loving wife, Becky Solis, whom he married in 2005. He also leaves behind his daughters Carol Vasquez and Cynthia Faldyn; his sisters Janie Deleon and Gloria Januk; niece Monica Deleon, nephews Jaime Solis, Eli Elizondo and a blended, loving family that includes John and Roxanne Salinas, Natalie and Orlando Diaz, and Stephanie Salinas, widow of his late stepson Robert Salinas.
Mel was a proud grandfather to many grandchildren and great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren. Known affectionately by them as “Grandpa Solis” or “Grandpa Mel,” he brought joy, humor, and warmth into every family gathering.
Throughout his life, Mel worked in sales at Lennox International and, in his younger years, on the railroad. He was a man of many interests—fishing, golfing, and playing guitar in his earlier years. In later life, he found quiet joy in bird watching, watching deer in the yard, and enjoying the simple presence of family.
Mel was sharp-witted and had a wonderful sense of humor that never faded. He had the rare gift of making people laugh, and his light-hearted nature brought comfort and smiles even in difficult times.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Visitation for Emilio will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Calvary Hill Funeral Home, 21723 Aldine-Westfield Road, Humble, TX 77338. A Rosary will begin at 6:30 PM. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM, at Calvary Hill with a committal service at 11:00 AM.
We are grateful for your support and kindly request that no food be brought to the service.
