Rafael Ricardo Luna

Rafael R. Luna, beloved father, grandfather, brother, friend, community leader, entrepreneur, and tireless advocate for Latino culture, passed away on January 24, 2026, at the age of 67. He was born to Cecilia and Rafael P. Luna on December 14, 1958, in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, MX, and was raised in Dallas, Texas. A city that would later become the heart and passion of his life’s legacy.

Rafael’s early life was marked by his hard-working and determined nature. He attended grade school in San Antonio, Texas. His family later moved to Houston, Texas, where he graduated from MacArthur High School. He pursed his studies at the University of Houston, focusing on mechanical engineering and obtaining a stationary engineering license. These formative years across Texas helped shape his deep connection to both his Mexican heritage and his American upbringing. Rafael eventually made Dallas, Texas his home with his three beautiful daughters Erica, Jeanette, and Corrina- who he cherished deeply and were the loves of his life.

Rafael was widely known and deeply respected throughout the Dallas community. Alongside his late wife, Cindy Benavides Luna, they built a pioneering events and promotions company, Strategic Events dedicated to celebrating Latino heritage and creating spaces where culture, family, and community could thrive. Together, they produced numerous landmark events that became staples of North Texas, Including Mundo Latino at the State Fair of Texas, Latino Bridal & Quinceañera Expo, Festival Latino at Six Flags Over Texas, and the Mega March in Dallas. These events were more than celebrations, they were platforms for visibility, pride, and unity.

For 29 years, Mundo Latino was a cornerstone of the State Fair of Texas, celebrating Latino culture while creating volunteer and scholarship opportunities for high school students. The event showcased prominent Mexican artists and cultural entertainers and provided small businesses and artisans a platform to share their work. Mundo Latino became a lasting symbol of representation, opportunity, and cultural pride one of Rafael’s most enduring contributions.

Rafael’s service extended beyond events into civic leadership. He was actively involved with LULAC, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Latino Cultural Center, and served as President of the Resident Council of The Peak at Juliette Fowler. Through these roles, he championed education, economic empowerment, and cultural pride with generosity and vision.

Above all, Rafael was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his three daughters and their husbands, Erica and Roth Thlang, Jeanette and Jonathan Vasquez, and Corrina and Leo Ramos. His seven cherished grandchildren: Ryu and Roman Thlang; Andrew and Ava Vasquez; and Abigail, Zachary, and Logan Ramos. His Brothers Fernando and Aaron Luna and sister Cecilia Sarabia and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nothing brought Rafael more joy than his daughters and grandchildren. He treasured time spent with them taking them on outings, sharing meals and creating lasting memories. His love was unconditional and famously expressed in the words his children will forever remember: “I live for my girls”, “I live for my grandchildren” and “Whatever my babies Want!”

Rafael is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cindy Benavides Luna; his parents, Cecilia and Rafael P. Luna; his brothers, Arturo and Eduardo Luna; and nephew Artie Luna.

Rafael will be remembered as a man of passion, purpose and service. A loving father, grandfather, brother, and a proud cultural ambassador. A bridge-builder whose impact will continue to be felt throughout Dallas and beyond.

Family, friends, and community members are invited to gather and celebrate the

remarkable life and legacy of Rafael R. Luna.

A Celebration of Life will take place in his honor

Monday, February 9, 2026

4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Hall of State at Fair Park

3939 Grand Avenue

Dallas, Texas 75210

If you would like to send your condolences or flowers please send them to:

The Luna Family

2102 Grand Cayman Way

Mesquite, Texas 75149