Deacon Arnoldo Marcha Sr.

Deacon Arnold Marcha, age 80, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and family on September 6, 2026. He was born at home in Corpus Christi on September 3, 1946, to Amador Marcha Sr and Maria Longoria Marcha.

Deacon Arnold was a proud graduate of Roy Miller High School, Class of 1965. Following high school, he answered the call to serve his country as a United States Marine and proudly served during the Vietnam War. His military service was a testament to his courage, dedication, and commitment to serving others -qualities that he continued to demonstrate throughout his life.

On September 27, 1968, he married the love of his life, Pat F. Marcha. He and his “Amor” as he called her, shared 58 years of marriage , building a loving family and lifetime of cherished memories.

Arnold dedicated many years of his professional life to Valero refineries in Corpus Christi, where he worked as a refinery operator and trainer. He was also called to a life of service through his faith. Right before retirement, Arnold became a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Corpus Christi and was assigned to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, where he faithfully served his church family for many years.

His ministry brought him great joy. He treasured the opportunity to celebrate and share in the most meaningful moments of his family and people's lives, including baptisms, weddings, confirmations, and spiritual retreats. He created lasting memories through his compassion, kindness, beautiful smile, and genuine love for others. He touched countless lives through his work, ministry, friendship, and service.

He had a passion for sports, and he loved cheering for his favorite teams: the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros and San Antonio Spurs. He was a Miller Hall of Fame recipient of the 1963 State Finalist Miller Buccaneer’s football team, and was a track star as he won an All-City honor during his school years. He enjoyed playing golf and especially loved coaching and encouraging his children and grandchildren. He was a coach and PTO president at St Theresa and OLPH Catholic schools, he coached at OSO little league, AAU basketball, Little Miss Kickball and volunteered as an umpire/referee.

Outside of sports, Arnold enjoyed having a good time. He loved gambling at Kickapoo Casino, dancing to oldies music, and watching classic Western . Some of his happiest moments were the simple ones—sitting together, talking, laughing, and spending time with his family. Music was especially close to his heart, he was a clarinet player for the Roy Miller Band, member of the Corpus Christi Veterans Band and Patriot Band. His love for music was something he shared with those around him. Some of his favorite music entertainers were Diana Ross, The Temptations and Laura Canales.

Deacon Arnold was a faithful husband, great father, brother, cousin, uncle, and mentor. He leaves a legacy that will never be forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his father, Amador Marcha, his mother, Maria Longoria Marcha and his brother, Gilbert Marcha.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 58 years, Pat F. Marcha; his children, Melissa Lopez (Tony), Arnold Marcha Jr.(Jessica), Roland Marcha, and Laura Johnson (Jay); his siblings, Joe Longoria, Mary Lou Elizondo, Amador Marcha Jr.(Norma), and Virginia Manriquez; and his many beloved grandchildren, including Christina Lopez Salazar(Jesus), Antonio Lopez III (Alfonso), Marissa Lopez(Joseph Pena), Marc Anthony Marcha, Marina Sanchez, Elana Sanchez, Brenden Sanchez, Ricky Marcha, Laila Marcha, Bodhi Marcha, Arnold Marcha III, Nick Sutton, and Bailee Sutton.

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Abigail, Jayden, Sophia, Damien, Roman and Noah, and his great-great-granddaughter, Valentina, along with numerous cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt and special thank-you to all of the physicians, nurses, and staff who cared for Deacon Arnold. Your compassion, dedication, and kindness will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

A very special thank you to Fr Peter, Fr Luke, Fr Daryl and all his brother Deacons especially Deacon Fred, Deacon Armando, Deacon Lee , Deacon BB and Deacon Marco for the prayers , spiritual support, guidance and love they provided, especially during Deacon Arnold’s final days. Your presence, prayers, and ministry brought great comfort to him and his family during such a difficult time.

His family also wishes to express our sincere gratitude to OLPH Staff for all of your support and prayers, kindness and care. Last but not least to all the OLPH parishioners thank you for keeping him and his family in your prayers. Your love ,support, and continued prayers have meant more than words can express.

Though he is no longer with us physically, Deacon Arnold's faith, laughter, smile, music, stories, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Semper Fi