Born on August 4, 1930, in La Blanca, Texas, Eli was the beloved son of Exiquio Garza and Josefa Garza-Burnias. From humble beginnings, he lived a life marked by strength, devotion, and quiet dignity. A proud veteran, Eli honorably served his country in the United States Army—his service a reflection of the deep love he carried for his country and his community. He was a hard working man who devoted his time to his craft, retiring at the age of 92.
Eli was a man of enduring love and loyalty. He is survived by his devoted wife, Nicolasa G. Garza, with whom he shared nearly 70 beautiful years of marriage. The two were looking forward to celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary on October 29—a testament to a love that stood the test of time, rooted in faith, partnership, and mutual respect.
He was a proud and loving father to six children: Estella (Alejandro) Dominguez, Nancy (Ralph) Rodriguez, Lillian (Ruben) Rivera, Eli Garza Jr., Leroy (†Rachel) Garza, and Rene (Hilda) Garza. He was a guiding light in their lives, and his wisdom and quiet strength continue to live on through them.
Eli cherished his role as grandfather to Marissa Salazar, Jorge Carlos Dominguez, Nichol R. Gonzalez, Ralph Rodriguez Jr., Rene (Eli) Areguillin, Ruben Rivera Jr., Robert Rivera, Porfirio Rivera, , Ryan Garza, Amber Hernandez and Leroy Garza Jr. He was also blessed with 18 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren—each one a part of his living legacy.
He is also survived by his siblings: Louis (Josie) Garza, Elena Derry Berry, and Celia Wells. Their shared memories of childhood and family will forever bind them.
Eli was preceded in death by his parents, Exiquio & Josefa Garza, his grandparents, Federico and Luciana Garza; siblings Hector, Arturo, Guadalupe, Exiquio Jr., and Eliza & Diane; his grandchildren, Eli Garza III and Eliardo Garza; and his daughter-in-law, Rachel Garza.
To know Eli was to know a man of humility, resilience, and deep-rooted love for family. He truly believed in not letting the right hand know what the left hand is doing; he was always doing what he could to help others, quietly, without wanting any recognition. He had a quiet strength, an unwavering faith, and a heart that gave freely. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the values he passed down, and the memories his loved ones will carry forever.
A life well-lived, a soul well-loved.
In lieu of flowers the family would love to have donations made to the Aurora House for the exceptional care their family received during their stay.
Donations can be made at https://www.aurorahouse.org/support/ways-to-donate
