Rafael A. Perez

Rafael Antonio Perez, affectionately known as "Tony" or "Tono" to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2024, at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his son, Rolando Adriel Perez; his parents, Leonardo and Santitos Perez; his brother, Leonardo (Rosa) Perez II; and his sisters, Guadalupe (Pablo) "Lita" Cantu, Ella (Isaac) Trevino, and Leonor (Ruben) Cavazos;his in laws, Emede and Guadalupe "Lupita" Canales and his brothers-in-law, David Garcia and Flavio Canales.

Tony was a selfless man who deeply loved his family and dedicated his life to giving back to his community. He volunteered his time and talents to the church, helping with various handyman projects. He was a member of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Adult Choir, a devoted Secular Franciscan, and a proud member of The American Legion. Tony served his country honorably in the U.S. Army.

For many years, Tony was a very successful welder, working in the profession for 25 years, which took him across Texas. As children, visiting him on the job felt like a vacation, especially when it meant staying in a hotel and swimming in the pool—memories that his family will always treasure. His career path shifted when he began working with the International Boundary and Water Commission as a heavy machine mechanic/welder. Eventually, he was promoted to Lead Supervisor, where he continued his dedicated service. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and recognition for his hard work and dedication.

Tony loved to hunt and fish, and the memories of going to Agua Nueva, where he grew up, will forever be cherished. He also loved traveling with his family to New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and many places in Texas. The family had many wonderful trips to the beach and river that will always be fondly remembered.

Those who knew Tony can imagine him now, greeted by his son, parents, and siblings, sharing a cup of coffee around the kitchen table—a cherished ritual in his family. Just as his mother always had a pot of coffee waiting, they are now gathered together, reminiscing and enjoying each other’s company as they did for so many years.

He leaves behind many precious memories that will forever be treasured by his wife of 58 years, Azalia C. Perez of Hebbronville; son, Rafael A. Perez Jr. of Kingsville; daughters, Marissa Perez (Mike) Montemayor of San Antonio and Michelle Perez of Laredo; sisters, Lesvia (Eulogio) Mendoza of Hebbronville, Gloria Canales of Rio Grande City, and Oralia Garcia of Kingsville; cherished granddaughter, Alexandra Montemayor; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Pallbearers will be Pablo Cantu Jr., Eulogio Mendoza III, Eduardo Mendoza, Joseph Perez, Fernando Canales II, and Emede V. Canales III. Honorary Pallbearers will be Christopher J. Canales, Adriel D. Prieto, and Michael A. Inocencio, Jr.

A Holy Rosary will be prayed at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Funeraria Del Angel Howard-Williams in Hebbronville, with visitation beginning at 8:30 a.m. The Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Hebbronville. Services will conclude with burial at the New Hebbronville Cemetery.

Tony's kind heart, strong spirit, and unwavering commitment to his family, work, and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and the many lives he touched.