Tomas Gonzales

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Tomas was the devoted son of Justo Agustin Gonzales and Maria Guadalupe Imperial. His upbringing was rooted in faith, with his family deeply involved in the St. Paul's Catholic Church community. These early years instilled in him a strong moral foundation, an unwavering work ethic, and a deep love for family.

Tomas’s commitment to service began in high school through JROTC, which led him to enlist in the United States Army. He served his country honorably for 27 years, including deployments with the 101st Airborne Division during the Gulf War and with the 3rd ACR during Operation Iraqi Freedom I and III. Among his many achievements, he earned the Bronze Star, Airborne and Air Assault qualifications, Drill Sergeant designation, and was a proud recipient of the Order of Saint Maurice and the Order of the Spur. He retired with distinction in 2014 as a Command Sergeant Major.

Beyond his military career, Tomas remained deeply committed to his community. He served as a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus and held multiple leadership roles in the Boy Scouts of America, especially with Troop 355. A proud veteran, he co-founded the nonprofit organizations Lonestar Warrior Outpost and American Legion Spring Post 239—named after Ernest G. Bucklew—alongside his son Jeff.

Above all, Tomas cherished his role as a dad and Papa. He often reminisced about fishing trips with his dad and gardening with Bishop Pop. His hobbies—ranging from racquetball and rock climbing to woodworking, BBQing, and family cruises—were shared with those he loved most. His dad jokes, warm laugh, and infectious smile will be remembered by all who knew him.

Tomas is survived by his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Juanita “Jaye”; his children: Janice “Prin” (Angel), Jeff (Marisol), Tomas Jr. “Tommy,” Mark (Araceli), and Jayson; and his cherished grandchildren: Aliah “Duchess,” Leo, Aiyana “Ladybug,” and Matthias. He is also survived by his siblings: Connie (Leonard), Irene (Ron), Lisa (Dana), and Augie (Deena), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Agustin and Lupe, and by his grandchildren, John Thomas and Michael Ray.

A visitation will be held at American Heritage Funeral Home, located at 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038, on July 22, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A rosary will take place at the same location from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The funeral service is scheduled for July 23, 2025, at Saint Edward Catholic Church, 2601 Spring Stuebner Rd, Spring, TX 77389, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

A committal service will follow at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, from 12:45 pm to 1:15 pm.