Raul Cavazos

Raul Cavazos, born on November 29, 1946, in Edinburg, Texas, passed away on June 15, 2026 in Austin, Texas, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. A man of quiet strength and unwavering devotion, Raul lived a life defined not by words but by the depth and consistency of his actions. Raul grew up in the small community of Linn, where he developed the steadfast character and strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

He went on to graduate from Pan American University with a degree in accounting, an achievement that set the foundation for a distinguished career. In 1970, Raul began working for the Texas Employment Commission as a part of the Texas state tax office.

Throughout his 25 year career, he worked keeping employers compliant with Texas Tax code. He served faithfully and consistently until his retirement, earning the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of countless individuals he assisted along the way.

On July 11, 1969, Raul married Ernestina Reyes. Their union would span more than half a century, a testament to the loyalty, patience, and quiet devotion that defined him as a husband and partner. Together, they built a family that withstood the trials of life.

After retiring, Raul poured himself into one of his most amazing accomplishments: building his family's home from the ground up. Over the course of four years, he laid every stone, raised every wall, and shaped a place where his family could gather, celebrate, and make memories. It was a labor of love in the truest sense, carried out with the same patience and dedication he brought to everything he did.

Raul cherished his grandchildren. They were his greatest joy. He was a constant, faithful presence in their lives, attending their musicals, dance and piano recitals, jiu jitsu tournaments, basketball games, and soccer matches. When summer came, he was behind the grill, cooking for birthday celebrations, making sure each gathering felt special. He showed up without fanfare, because that was simply who he was.

A man of faith, Raul attended church throughout his life, drawing strength and comfort from his Christian beliefs. He served with the Knights of Columbus for many years. His long suffering through illness was met with the same quiet patience that characterized everything he did. His family takes solace in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of God, free from the burdens of his earthly struggle.

Raul is survived by his beloved wife, Ernestina Cavazos; his daughters, Dolores Cavazos and Stephan Pickens, Linda Renee and Michael Guilette, and Sandra Monica Chelstrom; his grandchildren and spouses, Caleb Michael Pickens, Stephanie Renee and Matt Noble, Katherine Elizabeth and Chad Hendrix, Daniel Aaron and Kelsey Pickens, Joel Christopher and Skylar Pickens, Christina Grace and Jacob Coquat, and Jonathan Gabriel and Abigail Pickens; his great grandchildren, Emerson, Elise, Charlie, Elijah, Amalie, Evelyn, and Milo; his siblings and spouses, Jose Guadalupe and Gloria Cavazos, Joaquin and Teodora Cavazos, Crisanto and Belinda Cavazos, Ruben and Vilma Cavazos, Esther and Kevin Waters, and Melva Cavazos. He is preceded by his father, Guadalupe Cavazos; his mother, Guadalupe Vela; his sister, Ester; his grandfather, Crisanto Vela and his grandmother Bernarda Elizondo.

He was a quiet man, but his acts were steady, loving and faithful.