Born October 16, 1949 in Laredo to the late Fernando San Miguel Sr. and Alicia Solis San Miguel, Fernando built a life centered on faith, family, love for country and a deep service to his community. He was a proud member of the Homer Hanna High School Class of 1968 and honorably served his country in the Untied States Marine Corps and the Marine Corp Reserve.
Fernando’s career reflected his strong work ethic, dedication to community and was well respected amongst his peers. In addition to serving his country, he worked as a firefighter with the Brownsville Fire Department, a chemical operator and fireman at Union Carbide, and was a Safety Director for the Brownsville Rio Grande International Railway. An entrepreneur at heart, he later founded and owned South Texas Railroad Construction for the latter part of his career.
As a lifelong Catholic, Fernando began his journey of faith as an altar boy at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and remained an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Following his retirement, his passion for local history led him to volunteer and serve on the Board of Directors for the Historic Brownsville Museum to which he donated the replica of the “Bessie” steamboat that once navigated the Rio Grande. He also assisted in setting up the historic railroad engine “El Transito” and caboose. He especially enjoyed working with Toys for Tots and often organized toy drives at the museum. Fernando stayed closely connected with lifelong friends through the Gathering of the Eagles.
An avid class car enthusiast, Fernando served as president and organizer of Brownsville Classics, leveraging local car shows to raise support for local churches, schools and charitable causes. He also cherished time with his family, whether being at large family gatherings, travelling with his children and grandchildren or going to dances and listening to live music with his wife, he loved being present with those he loved most.
Fernando is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Maria “Elva” San Miguel; his children, Fernando San Miguel III (Brianna), Elaine San Miguel Reyes (Saul), and Adrian San Miguel (Jim); his cherished grandchildren, Ryan San Miguel, Sophia San Miguel, Alejandro Reyes, Liliana Reyes, Victoria Reyes and Isabella Reyes; his sisters, Evangelina Uselton, Aida Garza, Alicia Chavez, and Minerva Benavides.
He joins in eternal rest with his mother, Alicia; his father, Fernando Sr.; his grandmother, Fanny Martinez; and a large, welcoming heavenly family.
Fernando leaves behind a wonderful legacy of faith, kindness, and love for family and community.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fernando’s memory to the ALS Association.
Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Buena Vista, 125 Mcdavitt Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521, on September 13, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with a rosary at 7:00 pm.
Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 1914 Barnard Rd, Brownsville, TX 78520, on September 14, 2026, at 10:00 am, followed by a burial at Buena Vista Burial Park, 125 Mc Davitt Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521, at 11:00 am.
