Rudy Garza Funeral Homes

05/05/2026

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05/02/2026

05/01/2026

We are proud to recognize Diana for her many years of dedication to the funeral and cemetery profession. With experience dating back to 1991, Diana has been a trusted and compassionate presence for the families she serves.

She had the honor of working closely as the executive secretary to Mr. Rudy Garza, Jr., and was also among the very first employees at Ashland Memorial Park Cemetery after its acquisition by the Rudy Garza family. Her knowledge, reliability, and genuine care make her an invaluable part of our team.

A graduate of Rio Hondo High School, Diana continues to call Rio Hondo home, where she lives with her husband and three daughters. Her commitment to both her family and her community is reflected in the way she supports every family she serves—with kindness, professionalism, and heart.

05/01/2026

Rodolfo Rodríguez Ulibarri, nacido el 3 de diciembre de 1966 en Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, México, hijo de Rodolfo Rodríguez Requena y Elva Ulibarri Nava, falleció rodeado del amor de su familia.

Rodolfo fue un hombre que encontraba alegría en los momentos sencillos y significativos de la vida. Disfrutaba acampar en la playa, organizar parrilladas y convivir con su familia y amigos. Como talentoso artesano, le gustaba crear figuras de madera, un pasatiempo que reflejaba su creatividad y paciencia. También encontraba paz junto al mar y disfrutaba especialmente escuchar tríos y música de alabanza.

Rodolfo sirvió fielmente a su comunidad a través de su trabajo en Livingway Family Church en Brownsville, Texas, donde se dedicó con esmero y orgullo al mantenimiento del templo. Además, trabajó como contratista independiente, especializado en reparaciones y mantenimiento. Su mayor pasión fue servir en la iglesia y ayudar a los demás, siempre brindando su tiempo y sus habilidades con un corazón generoso.
Será profundamente extrañado y recordado con cariño por todos los que tuvieron el privilegio de conocerlo.

Le sobreviven su amada esposa de 28 años, Beatriz Adriana Rodríguez de Matamoros, Tamaulipas; sus queridos hijos, María Fernanda Rodríguez Villegas y Gadiel Rodríguez, ambos de Brownsville; sus hermanos, Eduardo Rodríguez Ulibarri (Ma. Guadalupe Morales Garza) de Monterrey, Nuevo León, y María Gabriela Rodríguez Ulibarri (Ricardo Hinojosa García) de Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas; así como siete queridos sobrinos y sobrinas.

Le preceden en la muerte sus padres, Rodolfo Rodríguez Requena y Elva Ulibarri Nava, y su hermano, Gustavo Rodríguez Ulibarri.

El velorio comenzará el viernes 1 de Mayo de 2026, de 12:00 p. m. a 9:00 p. m., e incluirá un servicio de oración a las 7:00 p. m. en la Capilla de los Ángeles de Rudy Garza, oficiado por el pastor Gamaliel Vallejo oficiando. Una Celebración de Vida se llevará a cabo el sábado 2 de Mayo de 2026 a las 10:00 a.m. en Livingway Church en Brownsville, Texas.

Los portadores del féretro serán Eduardo Rodríguez Ulibarri, Ricardo Hinojosa García, Naikoa Simao, Julio Rivera, César Rivera, Jesús Villegas Rodríguez y Gadiel Rodríguez.

Los arreglos funerarios han sido confiados a Rudy Garza Funeral Home en Harlingen, Texas.

Rodolfo Rodriguez Ulibarri, born on December 3, 1966, in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, to Rodolfo Rodriguez Requena and Elva Ulibarri Nava, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Rodolfo was a man who found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. He loved camping by the beach, hosting cookouts, and spending quality time with family and friends. A talented craftsman, he enjoyed creating wooden figures, a hobby that reflected both his creativity and patience. He also found great peace in the ocean and cherished listening to trios and worship music.

Rodolfo faithfully served his community through his work at Livingway Family Church in Brownsville, Texas, where he dedicated himself to maintaining the church with care and pride. In addition, he worked as an independent contractor, specializing in repairs and maintenance. His greatest passion was serving the church and helping others, always offering his time and skills with a generous heart.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Rodolfo is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Beatriz Adriana Rodriguez of Matamoros, Tamaulipas; his loving children, Maria Fernanda Rodriguez Villegas and Gadiel Rodriguez, both of Brownsville; his siblings, Eduardo Rodriguez Ulibarri (Ma. Guadalupe Morales Garza) of Monterrey, Nuevo León, and Maria Gabriela Rodriguez Ulibarri (Ricardo Hinojosa Garcia) of Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas; as well as seven cherished nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rodolfo Rodriguez Requena and Elva Ulibarri Nava, and his brother, Gustavo Rodriguez Ulibarri.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at the Rudy Garza Chapel of Angels in Harlingen, with Pastor Gamaliel Vallejo officiating. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Livingway Family Church in Brownsville, Texas.

Serving as pallbearers will be Eduardo Rodriguez Ulibarri, Ricardo Hinojosa Garcia, Naikoa Simao, Julio Rivera, Cesar Rivera, Jesus Villegas Rodriguez, and Gadiel Rodriguez.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen, Texas.

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05/01/2026

Pedro Hinojosa, 72, of Santa Rosa, Texas, passed away on April 28, 2026, at Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen, surrounded by his loving family while listening to his favorite music.

Motivated by the youth, Pedro studied and earned a teaching degree at Pan American University in Edinburg, in 1989, in La Feria, instantly connecting with both students and peers with both his infectious personality and fun-loving, lighthearted demeanor. After two years in the district, Pedro moved to Santa Rosa, where he lived near his parents and siblings. It was here that he ultimately found his true place, inspiring students with special needs and coaching his much-loved Santa Rosa Warriors, helping lead their respective teams in multiple sports to many successful campaigns and even more motivational moments. Pedro spent years as a dedicated educator and coach in the community, gaining the admiration, respect, and love of the surrounding communities. A storied, tenured career culminating in his retirement in 2014.

Beyond the classroom and football fields, Pedro found joy in a plethora of hobbies, including, but not limited to, fishing and camping, traveling to foreign lands, cruising on his motorcycle, and cheering for his children and, later, his grandchildren's sporting events and extracurricular activities. The only thing he adored more was being able to share these moments with family and loved ones, most of all, his wife Gloria.

Pedro was also passionate about dancing and social gatherings with family and friends, while still finding time to devote himself to becoming a brother knight in the newly established chapter 18893 of the Knights of Columbus in Santa Rosa.

Coach Pete Hinojosa was preceded in death by his parents, Guadalupe and Evangelina Hinojosa, siblings Leonel Hinojosa, Amelia H. Sweet, Maria H. Ramirez, Ofelia H. Reyes, and Eudelia Hinojosa.

Pedro Hinojosa is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Gloria Saldana Hinojosa, and their 5 children: James Cabrera (Maria), Betsy Lopez (David), Mark Hinojosa (Clarissa), Steven Hinojosa, and Abby Hinojosa (Linzy), along with 9 grandchildren: Justin, Brandon, Alisha, Jeremy, Vianey, Jared, Aliana, Jordan, Sebastian, and 2 great grandchildren: Noah and Cody, alongside numerous loving relatives.

Visitation will be held at Rudy Garza Funeral Home – Chapel of Peace on Saturday, May 2, from 5 PM to 9 PM, with a Rosary at 7 PM. Visitation will continue on Sunday, May 3, from 12 PM to 9 PM, with another Rosary at 7 PM. The Funeral Service will take place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Santa Rosa on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 10 AM, followed by interment at Restlawn Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be...
Sons: James, Steven, Mark
Grandsons: Justin, Brandon, Jeremy Honorary: Jared, Jordan, Sebastian

REST IN PARADISE
'Coach Pete'
GO WARRIORS!!!
https://www.rudygarzafunerals.com/obituaries/pedro-hinojosa/ #!/Obituary

05/01/2026

Donna Lynne Lazar, born on July 23, 1954, in Spring Valley, New York, to Milton Petersen and Margaret Secora, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, at the age of 71 in Brownsville, Texas, surrounded by her loving family.

Donna dedicated much of her professional life to accounting, a field she truly enjoyed. She worked for over 15 years in the accounting department at A & P Headquarters in Montvale, New Jersey. She later continued her career with Anthony & Sylvan Pools and Interstate Waste Management, where she worked in Accounts Payable. Her strong work ethic and love for numbers were evident throughout her years of service.

Donna found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved traveling, especially going on cruises, and had a special fondness for shopping, most often for others. She delighted in giving, always thinking of her loved ones. Even in her final days, she continued to purchase Christmas gifts for her family, a testament to her generous and selfless spirit. Above all, Donna cherished the time she spent with her family.

Known for her warm and welcoming nature, Donna had a remarkable ability to connect with others. She formed lasting friendships with everyone she met and was loved dearly by many. Her home was always open, and she became a second mother to many of her children’s friends, maintaining those bonds throughout the years.

Donna also expressed her love through her cooking. Her family will fondly remember her signature dishes, including her potato salad, stewed chicken with capers, pepper steak, and shepherd’s pie meals that brought comfort and togetherness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton Petersen and Margaret Secora La Frentz.

Donna is lovingly remembered by her husband, Robert Nickel of Brownsville; her children, Gary Lazar (Adalgiza Vega) of Brownsville and Tracy Lew (Frank) of Brownsville; and her six grandchildren: Anthony Forzono of New York, Austin Forzono of Brownsville, James Farrell of New York, Thomas Farrell of New York, Gavyn Lew of Brownsville, and Aidyn Lazar of Brownsville. She is also survived by her three great-grandchildren, Cody Dougherty, Madilyn Farrell, and Carlie Farrell; and her sister, Gloria “Jean” Werner (William) of Florida.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life at 7:00 PM, officiated by Chaplain Santos Tamez, at the Rudy Garza Chapel of Angels in Harlingen, Texas.

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04/30/2026

We had a wonderful time participating in Career Day at Crockett Elementary School in Harlingen!

Tammy Garza and Sonia Galvan were proud to represent Rudy Garza Funeral Homes, sharing with students how we help families remember the people they love and care for one another
during important moments in life.

Thank you to Crockett Elementary for inviting us to be part of such a meaningful day—we loved being there!

✨ Kind hearts make strong communities.

04/28/2026

On Friday, April 24, 2026, we had the pleasure of hosting the La Feria High School Cosmetology Class at Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen.

Our directors, Sonia Galvan and Joey Torres, spoke with the students about the funeral profession and the vital role cosmetology plays in helping families honor their loved ones with dignity and care. Sonia also shared a brief history of the Garza family and how Rudy Garza Funeral Home came to be, giving students a deeper understanding of the heart behind our work.

One of the most meaningful moments came when a student shared her takeaway—that she had no idea how much we truly care.

We would like to extend a special thank you to Teacher Lina for giving us the opportunity to speak with her class. It was an honor to connect with these students and offer insight into a profession rooted in compassion, service, and respect. We are grateful for the opportunity to educate and inspire the next generation.

04/28/2026

Melanie Luna, 36, a lifetime resident of Weslaco went to be with our Lord on April 26, 2026. She was born March 3, 1990, to Humberto and Delfina Luna in Weslaco, Texas. She is survived by her loving family; mother; Delfina Luna, and step stepdad Erik Lopez. Father; Humberto Luna, son: Gianni Leon Ybarra, Father Daniel Ybarra, two brothers: Jose Humberto (Enedina) Luna Jr., Jose Humberto (Stephanie) Luna, four sisters; Eunice Luna (Joe Garcia), Monica Denis Luna (Esequiel Garcia), Lucero Krystal Luna (Aurelio Arroyo), Christina Marie (Marco) Castillo, and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces. nephews.

Melanie was a beautiful and loving women who adored her son, Gianni Leon, the love of her life. she enjoyed and also adored her entire family. She was a natural born artist, tattoo artist, boxing, and enjoyed playing the guitar. She was selfless woman who always gave all of herself to all. She was a loving and dedicated daughter, mother and sister. She is and will forever be loved and missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, May 1, 2026. We will depart Rudy Garza Funeral Home at 1:15 p.m. for a 2:00p.m. mass at Saint Joan of Arc in Weslaco, Texas. Interment will then follow at Sacred Park Cemetery in Mercedes, Texas. Funeral services are under the direction and care of Rudy Garza Funeral Home of Mercedes, Texas.

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04/28/2026

Benito Medina, 93, entered into eternal rest on April 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 21, 1933, to Silverio Tomas Medina and Modesta Valles, and was the youngest son of six children. From an early age, Benito learned the value of hard work, helping at a golf course where he collected golf balls. Raised in a close-knit family, he carried those strong values of dedication and love throughout his life.

Together with his beloved wife, Petra, Benito built a life centered on family and perseverance. As migrant workers, they traveled with their children to states including Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Florida, working seasonally to provide for their family. Despite the challenges, Benito treasured those years and the time spent with his loved ones.

Benito found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, rarely missing a game. He loved gathering with family for backyard barbecues and especially enjoyed playing poker, creating memories filled with laughter and camaraderie. He and his wife also shared a love for visiting flea markets and garage sales, often traveling to Houston in search of hidden treasures.

He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, uncle, and friend whose presence brought warmth and joy to those around him. Benito was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his children: Anadelia Medina (Gavino Garcia) of Dallas, Petra Medina Stewart (Rita) of Dallas, Benito Medina, Jr. (Rosie) of San Benito, Olga Flores (Fidencio “Tito”) of Harlingen, and Carolina Medina of Harlingen.

He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Benito Medina III, Crystal Flores (Warren McDermon), Gabrielle Flores, April Medina (Eli Martinez), and Aaniah Stewart; his eight great-grandchildren: Jalen McDermon, Madison Garcia, Destiny Medina, Joshua Garcia, Araalynn Garcia, Jisaiah Martinez, Dominic McDemon, and Jeremiah Martinez; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife Petra Medina, one son, Noe Medina, his parents, Silverio Tomas Medina and his mother Modesta Valles, two brothers and three sisters.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM at the Rudy Garza Chapel of Peace in Harlingen, Texas. The funeral will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, departing the funeral home at 10:30 AM for a burial at Heavenly Grace Cemetery in La Feria, Texas, with Brother Hoss Alvarez officiating.

Serving as pallbearers will be Benito Medina, Jr., Benito Medina III, Joshua Garcia, Madison Garcia, Eli Martinez, and Rodrigo Medina.

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04/25/2026

Rene Rodriguez, 52, of Mercedes, Texas went to be with our Lord on April 23, 2026. He was born July 20, 1973 to Hipolito and Maria del Refugio Villanueva Rodriguez in Weslaco Texas. He is survived by his loving family: Mother; Maria Rodriguez, sister; Mary Rodriguez, Two brothers; Rodolfo Rodriguez and Rolando Rodriguez and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his father; Hipolito Rodriguez.

Visitation will take pace on Monday, April 27, 2026 from 12:00p.m. to 9:00p.m. Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. A 10:00a.m. chapel service will be conducted at Rudy Garza chapel of peace with Brother Hoss Alvarez officiating. Interment will then follow at Mercedes Restlawn Memorial Park 8n Mercedes, Texas. Funeral services are under the direction and care of Rudy Garza Funeral Home of Mercedes, Texas.

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04/25/2026

Anastacia “Ana” R. Montes, 76, of Harlingen, Texas, entered into eternal rest on April 20, 2026. She was born on July 26, 1949, in Taft, Texas, to Leonardo Rosales and Maria De Jesus Salazar.

Ana was a woman of strength, love, and devotion to her family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved son-in-law, Gary Almendarez; and her six siblings, Leonardo Rosales, Jr., Manuel Rosales, Frank Rosales, Daniel Rosales, Cruz Solis, and Senona Rosales.

She leaves behind to cherish her beautiful memory her loving daughters, Virginia Gaytan, Gloria Almendarez (+ Gary Almendarez), and Angelica Benavides (Gabriel); her cherished grandchildren, Gary (Vanessa) Almendarez Jr., Debra Lynn Almendarez, Allyson Nicole Almendarez, and Jesse Tristian Espinoza; and her adored great-grandchildren, Jarek Mason Almendarez, Velanie Giselle Almendarez, Gianna Grace Almendarez, Vivienne Grey Almendarez, and Gracelyn Victoria Almendarez. She is also survived by her sisters, Herminia Rosales and Maria Luisa Beltran.

Ana dedicated many years of service to Levi Strauss until her retirement. She was a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother who often shared how her greatest joy was spending time with her family. She had a deep love for cooking and baking, always preparing meals from scratch—her empanadas and stuffing were especially loved by all who knew her.

She enjoyed listening to music, especially oldies and Elvis, and treasured the simple joys of life, including time spent with friends and family at “las maquinitas.” Ana was truly the rock of her family—her love, strength, and presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will begin Friday, April 24, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026, departing Rudy Garza Funeral Home at 10:30 AM for an 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Ashland Cemetery.

Funeral services are under the direction of Rudy Garza Funeral Home of Harlingen.

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