Alfonzo Ramirez Jr.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Alfonso and Beatriz (Saenz) Ramirez; his sister, Guadalupe; and his brother, Ramiro.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Maria Gloria Ramirez; his sons, Ronald and his wife Dee, and Randal; his brother, Romeo; his sisters, Graciela and Emma Lou; and his cherished grandchildren, Jesse and Brady and his wife Samantha.

Al was born on December 30, 1941, in Hebbronville, Texas, to Alfonso and Beatriz (Saenz) Ramirez and was raised in the small South Texas town of Benavides. He graduated from Benavides High School in 1961 and enlisted in the United States Air Force on September 14, 1961. On August 19, 1962, he married the love of his life, Maria Gloria Peña, daughter of Tomás and Adelina V. Peña of Concepcion, Texas. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, raising two sons, Ronald and Randal.

Al completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. During his distinguished 30-year military career, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Psychology and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Development. He rose to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and took great pride in serving seven years as a First Sergeant, where he made a meaningful impact on the lives of countless Air Force members and their families. Al was also deeply involved in the Air Force Sergeants Association, serving as an Active Duty Affairs Trustee on the International Executive Council.

His service took him around the world, including assignments in Austin and Big Spring, Texas; Biloxi, Mississippi; Izmir, Turkey; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Madrid, Spain. He also completed two isolated tours in Korat Air Base, Thailand, and Thule Air Base, Greenland. Al considered it a true honor and privilege to have served his country.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Al continued his dedication to public service with the Social Security Administration, working in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and later in Dallas, Texas, where he retired. Al was a devoted member of his church and faithfuly served in various roles at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church since 1998. Also was also a valued member and leader with the Knights of Columbus, having been a Knight for 56 years and taking on varied responsibilities, including Faithful Navigator and Color Corp Commander. He enjoyed being involved with his local community and served as President of his local Homeowners Association, and supported numerous military causes as well as his church's Pro-Life ministry.

Al loved country music and was a gifted musician and singer, bringing joy to many through his music. As a member and leader of his band, “The Country Squires,” he played guitar and bass and was especially known for his rendition of “Blue Spanish Eyes.” Fluent in both English and Spanish, he also delighted audiences with traditional Mexican love songs and lively rancheras. Whether performing at formal events or casually on his backyard porch, Al loved entertaining and bringing people together.

Al was known for his sharp business sense and his lifelong commitment to learning. In his leisure time, he enjoyed playing golf with family and friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all of Al’s friends and loved ones for their support over the years.

Al will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his service to his country, his deep faith, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him.