Ramiro "Ray" Garza II

Ray was known for his warm spirit, unwavering loyalty, and the deep love he had for his family. He carried a quiet strength and a generous heart, always offering a helping hand, a kind word, or a listening ear to those around him.

From 1987 to 1995, he proudly served in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of Sergeant. His time in service was a source of great pride, and he carried that sense of discipline and dedication into every area of his life. Ray was devoted to his faith in Christ and was an active member of Second Baptist Church of Houston, where he found strength, guidance, and fellowship. He also had a lifelong love for sports and enjoyed nothing more than watching a good game with family and friends. He cheered passionately for the Houston Astros, the Houston Rockets, and the Texas Longhorns. Though once a loyal Dallas Cowboys supporter, he recently surprised many by publicly shifting his support to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ray is preceded in death by his loving parents, Ramiro Garza Sr. and Ernestine Garza; his sister, Sandra Jean Shackleford; and his brothers, Jesus Ramiro “Jesse” Garza and Consuelo Erasmo “Razz” Garza. Their memories live on in the stories shared and the lives they touched.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Monique Garza, and their children—sons Joey Garza and fiancé Kelsey and Conner Garza; and step-sons Steven Villarreal and spouse Whitney and Scott Villarreal and spouse Marina. He was a proud grandfather to Stellar Garza, Selah Garza, Olyvia Villarreal, Waylon Villarreal, Brady Ellenberg, Logan Ellenberg, Jensen Ellenberg and Emory Ellenberg each of whom brought joy to his heart and a smile to his face.

Ray is also survived by a large and loving family of siblings: Maria Fogerty; Danny Moore and spouse Karen; Johnny Garza and spouse Rosemary; Norma Moore; Julia Fernberg and spouse Jim; Hector Garza and spouse Diane; Ernest “Randy” Moore and spouse Deanna; Ramiro “Ram” Garza Jr. and spouse Cynthia; and Rhonda Dickson and spouse Bobby. He is lovingly remembered by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. His bond with his family was one of laughter, support, and unbreakable connection. His closest friend, Rene LaVenia, remained a constant presence in his life—a source of strength and joy throughout the years.

Ray’s life was filled with love, family, and the simple joys that come from being present and genuine. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, Ray requested that donations be made to the American Heart Association, in support of ongoing research and care for heart health, a cause he deeply valued.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 2 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the chapel at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 South Kirkwood Road in Stafford.

Friends are invited to gather with the family and share memories of Ray during a reception to be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the event room at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 3 at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 South Kirkwood Road.

The interment will follow, via funeral procession to Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive in Houston.