David Anthony Cortez

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of David Anthony Cortez, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on July 3, 2026. He was born on October 16, 1981, at St. Joseph Hospital in Bryan, Texas.

David will be deeply missed but never forgotten. He will be remembered for his big heart, gentle spirit, and wonderful sense of humor.

David found great joy in bringing people together. He loved cooking and hosting family gatherings, creating lasting memories around the table with those he loved. He was a devoted aviation enthusiast who looked forward to attending air shows, especially Wings Over Houston. He was fascinated by military aircraft, with a special appreciation for powerful jets and the iconic World War II bombers.

David also had a lifelong love of trains. Big or small, he loved them all. His passion was so great that he devoted an entire room in his home to his train collection, where he and his son carefully designed train layouts and spent countless hours enjoying their shared hobby.

David dedicated much of his life to the restaurant business where he found his true calling in serving others. He began working at Potato Shack in the early 2000s, and after many years of hard work and dedication, his dream came true when he proudly became the owner of Potato Shack Plus in 2021.

Whether David was sharing a meal, talking about airplanes, or watching trains with his son , David had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome. His greatest joy was his family and the love he gave them will remain with them always.

David was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vincent Marucci, Rudy Cortez Sr., and Irene and John Lopez.

David is survived by his loving wife, Lyndsey Shirley Cortez, and his son, John Anthony Cortez. He also leaves behind his father, Rudy Cortez Jr.; his mother, Gwen Marucci; his grandmother, Alice Cortez; and his in-laws, Lisa and Anthony Mynar, and Crystal and Dwayne Shirley.

Also left to cherish his memory are his sister, Jennifer Cortez; his brother, Brandon Cortez, and wife, Blair Cortez; and his sister-in-law, Stephanie Shirley, and husband, Cody Lewis. David was a loving and devoted uncle to his niece, Hailey Cortez, and his nephews, Mason Cortez, Knox Cortez, Nash Cortez, Austin Lewis, and Mason Lewis. He is also survived by many other extended family members and dear friends who loved him deeply.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the caregivers of Hospice Brazos Valley for the compassionate care and kindness they provided to David and his family during his final days at home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Hospice Brazos Valley in memory of David Anthony Cortez.