Santos Reyes Esquivel entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at his sister’s residence in Corpus Christi, Texas, at the age of 83. He was born on August 25, 1942, in Falfurrias, Texas, to Miguel A. Esquivel and Concepcion Benavides Esquivel.
Beginning at a young age and spanning over 77 years, Santos dedicated his life to working as a truck driver, traveling to every state except Hawaii. Over the course of his career, he drove well over one million miles and was honored with a certificate recognizing his commitment to safe and dedicated driving.
In his spare time, Santos found great joy in helping others. He was always willing to lend a hand to members of his community, friends, and family. He loved driving around town in his truck, checking to see if anyone needed assistance or simply stopping to visit and socialize. His bubbly personality and warm, friendly smile brought comfort and happiness to many. He was often found at the local Stripes store, enjoying his coffee and conversations with friends. Santos also loved his cats, spending time with family, and the Dallas Cowboys.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Mary Bell Esquivel; his grandson, David Carl Lange; and his siblings, David Esquivel, Noel Esquivel, Margarito Esquivel, Nicanor Esquivel, Delia Quintanilla, and Graciela Saenz.
Santos leaves behind to cherish his memory his son, Michael Ray Esquivel of Oklahoma; his daughter, Angela Esquivel Lewis of Denver, Colorado; siblings: Felix Esquivel of San Antonio, Texas; Sara (Johnny) Carbajal of Kingsville, Texas; Leonor (Fred) Chavera of Corpus Christi; Esther Velasquez of Kingsville; Homer (Lisa) Esquivel of Falfurrias; Eva Saenz of San Diego, Texas; and Polo (Azalia) Esquivel of Corpus Christi; his nephew who he loved like a brother, Gustavo (Andrea Gutierrez) Esquivel of Falfurrias; his two grandsons, Tyler Lewis of Denver and Marcel Esquivel, currently stationed in South Korea with the U.S. Army; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Pallbearers will be Gustavo Esquivel, Eric Chavera, Steven Saenz, Robert Esquivel, Alex Esquivel, Matthew Esquivel, and Raymond Saenz. Honorary Pallbearers will be Joseph Carbajal, Erik Esquivel, Darrien Gutierrez, and Gustavo Esquivel Jr.
A Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Funeraria Del Angel Howard-Williams in Falfurrias, with Visitation beginning at 6:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Falfurrias. Burial will follow at the Falfurrias Burial Park.
