Ruben Garcia

With heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for his life, we announce the passing of Ruben Garcia, who entered eternal rest on May 2, 2025. Born on March 10, 1952, in Kingsville, Texas, to Isabel (Chavelo) Garcia and Modesta Rodriguez Garcia, Ruben was a man of remarkable talent, unwavering devotion, and a heart that embraced all who knew him. 

Ruben was more than a son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend—he was a mentor, an artist, and a beacon of kindness. His passion for music shaped his life’s work, and for over three decades, he guided countless students as a band director at Memorial Middle School in Kingsville and Holub Middle School in Alief. His lessons extended beyond the notes on a page; he taught perseverance, discipline, and the joy of creation. He inspired generations to find their voices and express their souls through melody, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of those he mentored. 

Beyond the classroom, Ruben’s generosity was a defining trait. He had a gift for bringing people together, hosting countless gatherings filled with laughter, good food, and the warmth of shared stories. Christmas at Ruben’s home was not merely a tradition but a treasured experience, marked by music, merriment, and the deep bonds of friendship that he so effortlessly nurtured.

 Preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ruben leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to those he cherished. He is survived by his devoted siblings, Minnie (Anthony) McConnell (Edinburg, TX) and Robert (Sylvia) Garcia (Williamsburg, VA); his nephews Chris (Yvonne) Cabrera (McAllen, TX) and David (Elena) Garcia (Williamsburg, VA); his nieces Kathy (Scott) Lewis (McKinney, TX), Christina (Greg) Garcia (York, PA), and Megan Garcia (Emeryville, CA); great nieces Madissen Robertson (Hunter), Stefani Cabrera, Brielle Garcia, Olivia Garcia, great-nephews Conner Lewis, Aiden Lewis, Ziggy Cabrera, Austin Garcia Books, Mason Garcia Books, cousins Carol Adams, Susan Clifton Rhodes, Ana Garcia, Tony Ozuna, Orlando Ozuna, Raquel Reyna, Becky Speck, Edna Beyer, Millie Garcia, Chris Garcia, Mario Garcia, Victor Garcia, Alonzo Garcia, Danny Hernandez and a vast circle of friends, colleagues, and students whose lives were brightened by his presence. 

The family will receive condolences from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Wednesday, May 28th at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary, 205 General Cavazos Blvd, in Kingsville. Holy rosary will be prayed at 7:00 PM after the Celebration of Life remembrance. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 715 N 8th Street, also in Kingsville, on Thursday , May 29th, at 10:00 AM. Burial at Santa Gertrudes Cemetery will follow after the funeral Mass. 

Ruben lived with grace, gave selflessly, and enriched the world with his talent and kindness. May his soul find eternal harmony in the presence of God, and may his love of music continue to echo in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

 As we honor Ruben’s extraordinary life, we find comfort in the words of Matthew 25:21, which perfectly encapsulates his spirit: 

"His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your master."