Richard "Ricky" P. Davila

Richard Peña Davila, known throughout South Texas as “Güero Polkas,” passed away on September 17, 2026 at his home in San Antonio, Texas. He was a vibrant soul, a legendary voice on the Texas airwaves, and above all, a friend to everyone he met. For over 60 years, he served as a beloved radio personality at KEDA “Radio Jalapeno” on radio dial 1540 AM in San Antonio, Texas. Beginning at 6:00 AM and lasting until 10:00 AM, Monday through Friday, his voice was transmitted throughout South Texas, where he began to accumulate numerous awards and recognitions. These accolades always took a back seat to the people he served – his listeners and the new artists seeking to find their way in the music industry. Whether he was spinning the iconic accordion of Flaco Jimenez, the gritty Texas rock of ZZ Top, or the soulful groove of Earth, Wind & Fire, he always made time to send out dedications to his listeners, announce “plate sales” for a worthy case, note important public events and announce the passing of a loved one. Rest assured, Güero Polkas always had his hand on the heartbeat of South Texas and what mattered most to his listeners.

Beyond his incredible career in radio, his true legacy is the boundless warmth, kindness and friendship he extended to all who crossed his path. He always said his greatest role was that of “Grandpa.” He will be deeply missed, but the music he loved and shared will continue to play on in the hearts of his extended family, friends and listeners forever.

Richard is preceded in death by his loving wife: Mary Louise Davila; his parents: Manuel and Madeline Davila, Sr.; his brothers: Jose Luis Davila and Roy Davila; and his son Jose Luis Davila I.

He is survived by his children & their spouses, Mary Louise Brock & Karl Brock, Richard Davila & Tere Davila, Michael Davila & Brenda Davila, and Robert Davila Sr.; His Grandchildren: Zachary Brock, Madison Brock, Kennedy Brock, Brittney Davila, Breanna Herd & Harley Herd, Sebastian Davila, Amelia Davila, Gabriella & Isabella Davila, Alex Davila, Tyler Davila, Reyna Davila, Robert Davila Jr., Jayden Davila, Isabella Davila, Arianna Davila, Madeline Davila, and Jose Davila II. His Great-Grandchildren: Hudson Herd & Hayes Herd, Azriel Davila, and Amelia Davila’s soon-to-be newborn son. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX 78218, US, on October 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. A Prayer Service will take place at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX 78218, US, on October 4, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX 78218, US, on October 5, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am, followed by a Committal Service at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209, US, on October 5, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am.