Tony Garza Jr.

Tony Garza, Jr. was called home by the Lord on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at a hospice center in Corpus Christi, Texas, at the age of 87. He was born on September 1, 1937, to Antonio Garza, Sr. and Ofelia Martinez Garza in Millett, Texas. He received his education in the Cotulla public schools and earned professional certifications from Texas A&I and East Texas State universities. While at Texas A&I, he walked on to the track team and from that humble beginning he went on to become the conference champion and record holder in the 100-yard dash. Ultimately, his athletic achievements earned him a place in the Texas A&I Hall of Fame.

On August 19, 1961, Tony married Dora Alaniz, and together they raised two sons, Ronnie and Ricky. Tony dedicated over 34 years to educating and coaching students until his retirement in 1995. He served at many schools, including Falfurrias High School, Alice High School, and Texas A&I University just to name a few.

Beyond his personal achievements and accolades, Tony will be remembered for his remarkable strength, leadership, and sense of humor. He loved to laugh, and his laugh was utterly contagious! He absolutely loved life, his family, and friends. He and Dora loved playing tennis and spending time out at the ranch tending to their cattle. He loved entertaining family and friends by barbecuing and telling stories. He was known for his skill at making the best back strap, brisket, and pan de campo. Tony's legacy lives on through the life-long relationships he built with his family, siblings, students, athletes, and colleagues. The guidance and mentorship he provided touched countless lives. His infectious sense of humor will never be forgotten. Although he is no longer with us physically, spiritually he will remain in our hearts forever.

As Tony entered the gates of Heaven, he was reunited with his parents; sister, Melida Salazar; brother-in-law, Larry Fraser and many more family members and friends.

Tony leaves behind to cherish his memories his wife of over 63 years, Dora A. Garza of Falfurrias; sons, Ronald Edward Garza of Palm Springs, California and Richard Michael (Barbara) Garza of Austin, Texas; brother, Danny (Donna) Garza of Marble Falls, Texas; sisters, Elsa (Bill) Doler of Calhoun City, Mississippi, Mary Fraser of St. George, Utah and Ida (Roger) Sivley of Columbus, Texas; three grandchildren, Michael A. Garza, Adrian N. (Tori) Garza and Sean (Patty) Massar all of Austin; great-granddaughter, GeAnna Massar of Austin and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

Pallbearers will be M.L. Best, Charlie Canales, Quirino Caro, Louie Garcia, David Gonzalez, Noe Guerra, Bucky McCall, Rolando San Miguel and Juan Villarreal. Honorary Pallbearers are Robert Rodriguez, and the late and beloved, Pepe Williams.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025 at the Funeraria Del Angel Howard Williams in Falfurrias with a Rosary to be prayed at 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Falfurrias. Services will conclude with Burial at the Falfurrias Burial Park.

The family is inviting those who would like to join them to please watch Rosary via live-stream at www.FunerariaDelAngelHWilliams.com or https://www.facebook.com/FDAHowardWilliams

Please join in watching a special tribute, provided by the family, at the following website:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_9UaI_zYoU