Abel Albino Vera, 87, of Corpus Christi, passed away on October 17, 2026. Abel was born on November 19, 1938, in Kingsville, Texas, to Abel G. Vera and Amelia Vera. As a young man he went to work alongside his father as a painter, learning early the value of hard work and a job done well. He later served in the Texas National Guard and went on to build a long and successful career in automotive parts sales, where his knowledge and dedication earned him several awards and the trust of customers and colleagues alike.

Abel had a gift for bringing joy to those around him. He was always looking for a way to make people laugh, and few left his company without a smile.

Abel married the love of his life, Maria Elena, and their marriage was a true testament to the words “in sickness and in health.” When she became ill in 1975, Abel devoted himself to her care, and for thirty-five years he gave her his time, his strength, and his tenderness until her passing in 2010. Even through those difficult years, he never lost his humor or his kindness. Those who knew him saw in that devotion the heart of who he was: steady, selfless, and loyal to the people he loved.

Abel had a curious mind and many passions. He was a lifelong student of history and anthropology, with a special fascination for Native American cultures. He loved searching for arrowheads and even mastered the craft of making them himself. An expert marksman with pistol, rifle, and bow, he spent much of his youth hunting and fishing. He had a deep love for World War II aircraft, attending airshows and patiently building detailed models of the planes he admired. He also loved trains, especially the old steam locomotives, and over the years he built a cherished collection of model trains and airplanes.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria Elena Vera; and his parents, Abel G. Vera and Amelia Vera.

Abel is survived by his son, Alfredo Vera, and his daughter-in-law, Sheena; his sister, Anna Leeah, and her children.

A holy rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m., on Saturday, October 24, 2026; followed by a funeral Mass at 1:00 p.m., at Corpus Christi Cathedral. Interment will follow at Santa Gertrudis Memorial Cemetery in Kingsville, Texas.