Israel Lerma Recio

Israel Lerma Recio entered into eternal rest on Friday, July 24, 2026, at a hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas, at the remarkable age of 94. Born on December 26, 1931, to Raul Recio Sr. and Eliza Lerma Recio, Israel lived a life defined by faith, humility, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family. As a young man he was a true cowboy, having been humbly raised, living and working on ranches. He was also a gifted singer and musician who often got together with friends and family to sing and dance, especially pachangas.

He married the love of his life, Eva Lopez, and together they shared 64 beautiful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Together they raised their daughter, Herlinda Margot Recio, in Premont, Texas.

Israel dedicated many years of his career as an insulator with Arthur Brothers, Inc. at the Celanese Plant in Bishop, Texas. Throughout those years, he traveled over 400 miles each week, carpooling with a group of coworkers who became lifelong friends. Their daily commutes were filled with laughter, funny stories, and stops at convenience stores for a refreshing beverage or two. Israel was often the one who generated the laughter with his quick wit and unforgettable storytelling. He brought talent, knowledge, and dedication to his work, earning the respect of those around him; many often looked to him for guidance and advice. His wisdom, his humor, his willingness to face challenges, was second to none. In a demanding and high-pressure environment, Israel had a remarkable gift for making each workday a little lighter for everyone around him. He took great pride in providing for his family and was admired for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and unwavering integrity.

Outside of work, he found his greatest happiness working alongside his beloved wife on their ranchito. Together they enjoyed dancing, traveling, and simply embracing life's many blessings. Israel enjoyed playing his guitar, singing, and simply enjoying time spent with those he loved most.

While Israel was a hardworking man, his greatest accomplishment was the family he loved so completely. He was not only a devoted husband and loving father, but also an extraordinary grandfather and treasured great-grandfather whose heart truly belonged to his family. His daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the greatest joy of his life, and he made certain each one knew how deeply they were loved. His kindness, gentle spirit, wisdom, and selfless heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He led by example, always placing the needs of those he loved before his own, and taught his family the true meaning of unconditional love, humility, faith, and devotion.

Israel's legacy is measured not only by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched and the values he passed on. Though his earthly journey has ended, his unmatched legacy will never fade because he truly left the world a better place.

Israel was reunited in Heaven with his parents; his beloved wife, Eva Lopez Recio; his sister, Teresa "Terry" Fanning; sisters-in-law, Albesa Recio, Maria Elena L. Davila, and Elia L. (Frank) Reyna; brothers-in-law, Eulalio (Irma) Lopez and Erasmo Lopez; and nephews, Raul Recio III and Reynaldo Recio Jr.

He is survived by his daughter, Herlinda Margot R. (Ricardo) Lopez of Premont; brothers, Reynaldo Recio Sr. and Raul (Yolanda) Recio Jr., both of Premont; sisters-in-law, Linda L. (Benito) De Luna of Rockport and Erica Lopez of Corpus Christi; brother-in-law, Ramiro Davila of Premont; grandchildren, Ricardo (Jenny Morante) Lopez Jr., Isaac I. Lopez, and Lianna L. (Arty) Trevino; nine great-grandchildren, Kailee, Ricardo III, AliAnna, Emilee, Aryanna, Ryan, Evan, Nick, and Audrina; his devoted caregiver, Anessa Guerra of Premont; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Pallbearers will be Ricardo Lopez Jr., Isaac Lopez, Arty Trevino, Clif Tinney, Dino Davila, and Gilbert Alegria. Honorary Pallbearers are Ricardo Lopez III, Nicholas Trevino, Ryan Trevino, Evan Trevino, Joe Garza, and Lino Razo.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Anessa Guerra and Debbie Garza for their unwavering care, compassion, and support.

Rosary will be prayed at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Premont with Visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. and services will conclude with Burial at the Premont Cemetery.