Matias R. Vera

Matias R. Vera, a devoted rancher and farmer, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on September 8, 1932, Matias embodied a life marked by dedication to his land and unwavering love for his family. His journey began humbly, rooted deeply in the soil he cherished, symbolizing a commitment not only to agriculture but also to the simple values that defined his character.

A proud veteran, Matias served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, a testament to his strength and sense of duty. This commitment to service mirrored his approach to life—one steeped in humility, integrity, and a profound sense of fairness. Known for his honesty, he naturally drew others to him, creating a tapestry of friendships that appreciated his strong values and warm heart.

Matias was a man who found joy in the simplest of moments. He loved to laugh, and with a quick wit and a cheerful spirit, he often delighted those around him with his humor. A true jokester at heart, his laughter became the sound to many cherished gatherings, especially those spent with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable pride and joy. His family was his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

In his leisure hours, Matias indulged in a variety of interests. He was an avid fan of boxing and baseball, and he found comfort in the iconic episodes of "The Three Stooges," "Gunsmoke," "Cantinflas," "The Andy Griffith Show," and "I Love Lucy." These shows not only entertained him but also reflected his love for simple pleasures and the joy of shared laughter; a theme that echoed throughout his life.

As we reflect on Matias R. Vera’s legacy, we remember him as a private, humble gentleman who touched many lives with his kindness, honesty, and humor. May his memory be a blessing, forever etched in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Dora (Garcia) Vera; great-grandson, Javier Tomas Sanchez-Quintanilla; parents, Victor and Maria (Rios) Vera; brothers, Cornelio Vera, Juan Vera, and Victor Vera, Jr.; sister, Augusta V. Garcia; and nephews, Cesar Vera, Elias Javier Lamb, and Victor Vera, III.

Among those left to cherish his memory are his children, Matias (Celina) Vera, Jr., Velma (Juan) Sanchez, and Nora (Raul Jr.) De Leon; siblings, Velia (Marcos) V. Lamb, Odelia (Ricardo Humberto) V. Gonzalez, and Maria (Juan Roberto) V. Elizondo; grandchildren, Matias Vera, III., Clarissa (Jaimie) Vera, Alma Theresa (Javier) Sanchez-Quintanilla, Jose David (Cleo) Sanchez, Analisa (Amanda) Sanchez, and Jason Raul (Ana) De Leon; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family will receive condolences at 9:00AM on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church; with a holy rosary to be recited at 9:30AM and mass of christian burial to be celebrated at 10:00AM. Rite of Committal and Interment with Military Honors will follow at Matias & Victor Vera Cemetery in Rios, TX.

A special thanks to Crown Hospice of Victoria, The Height's of Gonzales, Meridian Care of Alice, and Regional Hospital of Corpus Christi.