Clemente Menchaca Jr., 69, entered eternal rest on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at a hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was born on February 3, 1957, in Falfurrias, Texas, to Clemente M. Menchaca Sr. and Irma Garcia Menchaca.
Shortly after graduating from Falfurrias High School in 1974, Clemente proudly joined the United States Navy, where he served as a Crewmember Engineman Third Class. During his service, he completed an extended deployment aboard the USS Preserver, operating in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the U.S. Sixth Fleet.
Following his military service, Clemente built a long and dedicated career as an automotive parts salesman, working with O’Reilly Auto Parts for over 20 years. In his spare time, he had a deep passion for mechanic work, especially rebuilding and building race cars from the ground up. He not only loved working on cars but also took great pride in teaching his skills to his son and the younger members of his family and to his friends.
Clemente enjoyed attending drag races and often brought his sister along to share in the excitement. He also loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle and spending time on his tractor while caring for the ranch he cherished, land he inherited from his beloved grandmother, Jacinta Barrera Menchaca. During his time in the military, he made it a point to call her every Sunday, a testament to the deep bond they shared. He treasured the moments they spent together at family gatherings, parties, and dinners.
Above all, Clemente valued time with his family and friends. He was a devoted son and brother, caring for his mother and brother during times of illness with unwavering compassion. He welcomed others with open arms, treating everyone like family. He held a special place in his heart for his daughter-in-law’s family, whom he loved as his own.
Clemente was reunited in Heaven with his parents; brother, Jose David Menchaca; and nephew, Rolando Javier Menchaca, Jr.
Clemente’s memory will be cherished by his son, Clemente “CJ” (Yarely Hinojosa) Menchaca III of Falfurrias; brothers, Rolando Javier Menchaca Sr., of Falfurrias, and Jose Daniel “Danny” (Velma) Menchaca of Premont, Texas; sister, Melissa (Wayne Morais) Menchaca of Corpus Christi; three grandchildren, Jaylinez Menchaca, Aliyah Menchaca, and Clemente Menchaca IV all of Falfurrias; his close cousin, Ricky Garcia and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
Pallbearers are Ricky Garcia, Jose “JR” Cantu, Eric J. Cantu, Danny Menchaca, Jesus L. Trevino, and Leonardo D. Trevino. Honorary Pallbearer is Clemente Menchaca IV.
Funeral Outside of Mass will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the Funeraria Del Angel Howard Williams in Falfurrias with Visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. Military Honors and Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi.
