Armando Felipe Loya, 79, passed away on October 23, 2026, leaving a legacy of love, service, and devotion to his family. His radiant smile, generous spirit, and warm, caring nature touched countless lives.
Born on May 26, 1947, in San Elizario, Texas, to Lorenzo G. Loya and Leonor Gonzalez Loya, Armando was the eldest boy in the Loya family. He grew up working on the family farm and serving as a Catholic altar server. As a child, he earned perfect attendance in elementary school and was never tardy. A talented athlete, he played basketball and baseball thru High School.
Armando was drafted into the United States Army and served as a stevedore in the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969. After returning home, he met Estela Juana Reyes, whom he married in 1972. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children: Araceli Lewis, Armando Loya Jr., and Myra Loya. They shared 50 years of marriage before Estela’s passing.
Armando proudly dedicated more than 43+ years to federal service, working for agencies including the Department of Agriculture, Border Patrol, the Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Customs. He was recognized and received many awards for his hard work, dedication as an exemplary officer and sharpshooter. Throughout his life, he made his home in El Paso TX, Denton TX, and, most recently, Dallas, Texas.
Above all, Armando was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved supporting his children and grandchildren in their sports and could always be counted on as their loudest, proudest fan. His enthusiasm made sure they knew he was always cheering them on from the sidelines.
Armando and Estela loved welcoming family and friends to their vacation cabin in Cloudcroft, New Mexico, creating cherished memories in the mountains. He also loved Mexico’s beaches, food, music, and culture. At home, he found joy in backyard gatherings, grilling, watching his beloved Dallas Cowboys, and sharing the beautiful landscaping and gardens he and Estela lovingly tended.
Armando never met a stranger. He had many friends and loved bringing people together, making sure everyone was well fed and happy. His empathy and kindness made the world a better place, and his warmth will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Armando was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Estela Juana Loya; his parents, Lorenzo G. Loya and Leonor Gonzalez Loya; his brother, Lorenzo Loya; and his sisters, Maria Gloria Loya and Raquel Loya.
He is survived by his wife, Alma Loya; his children, Araceli Lewis, Armando Loya Jr., and Myra Loya; their spouses Paul Lewis, Beth Loya, and Elliott Galvan; his beloved grandchildren; Cristian Kelly, Luke Lewis, Paulina Kelly, Josh Lewis, Cruz Lewis, Ethan Loya, Allanah Padilla, Sienna Galvan, and Gavin Galvan; his brothers, Alfredo Loya and Sylvester Loya; and his sisters, Olga Vidalez, Sylvia Johnson, Yvonne Moreno, Elinora Herrera, and Diana Padilla.
His family, friends, and community will forever remember his faith, patriotism, radiant smile, his cheers from the sidelines, and his love for food especially his hatch green chiles which he roasted and shared so freely.
