Ruben Moya Gonzales

passing of Ruben Moya Gonzales, a devoted father, proud

grandfather, successful entrepreneur, and cherished

member of the community. Ruben peacefully passed away

in his own home surrounded by his loving family just

days before his 90th birthday, a milestone we now

celebrate as his heavenly birthday.

Ruben was born and raised in Tilden, Texas, where he met

his beloved wife, Dolores Quintanilla Gonzales, who

predeceased him in 1998. Ruben was one of nine siblings,

and from a young age, he exemplified the values of hard

work, integrity, and dedication. He graduated from Tilden

High School and went on to build a life marked by

perseverance, family, and service, all the while carrying

his small-town Texas roots with him wherever he went.

Ruben later moved to Pensacola, Florida, where he

planted new roots and pursued his entrepreneurial spirit.

Over the decades, Ruben founded and operated several

successful businesses—including restaurants, most

notably the famous, Ole Taco House, and real estate

ventures—that helped shape the local economy and

supported countless families. His work ethic, vision, and

commitment earned him the respect and admiration of

peers and community members alike.

Above all, Ruben was a family man. He was a loving

husband and a guiding presence to his three children, their

spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Ruben

was known for his hard work and determination, warm

smile, sage advice, and unwavering support for his family.

His legacy will most certainly live on in the values he

passed down through generations.

Ruben was preceded in death by his mother and father, his

beautiful wife, two of his brothers and his five sisters.

Though many have gone before him, Ruben’s memory

lives on through the generations he helped shape. Ruben is

survived by his three children, Robert, Minerva and

Diana, along with Diana’s husband, William, who thought

of Ruben as his own father. Ruben is survived by eight

grandchildren and their spouses, and numerous great-grandchildren, as well as his last remaining sibling,

Refugio Gonzales Sr., who shared a lifetime of memories

with him.

A celebration of Ruben’s life will be held on what would

have been his 90th birthday—Thursday, September 25,

2025—as we honor not just his years on Earth, but the

eternal impact he made on all who knew and loved him.

While we grieve the loss of his presence, we also rejoice

in the life he lived, the love he gave, and the legacy he

leaves behind.

Though he may be gone from our sight, his wisdom,

humor, and love remain forever in our hearts.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23