Roy Echavarria

Roy Echavarria
MERCEDES, TX. - Roy Echavarria, 72, was called to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 19, 2008, after a brief bout with cancer.
He was born in La Feria and raised by his maternal grandparents, Jesus and Dolores Echavarria, deceased.
Having lived in Mercedes all of his life, he was blessed to always have been surrounded with people who knew him, people who respected him and people who loved him. To all, Roy was a faithful man who attended Mass regularly at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, where he was a lifelong member. Through his faith, he developed his strong conviction in helping those around him. As a young man he and five of his close friends began a service organization in the early 70's. The organization named The Lonesome Six spearheaded many projects that focus solely on giving to those in need. As a member of the Knights of Columbus for many years he continued serving his community.
Despite his illness, he planned his last food drive of December of 2007. This final act of service included participation with two schools in Mercedes and one in McAllen that reflected his belief to teach the young the importance of giving.
Mr. Echavarria was preceded in death by his brother, Antonio Casas.
Left to honor his memory are his loving wife of 51 years, Esther Echavarria, sons, Lee Echavarria, Mario (Norma) Echavarria, Eloy (Rosie) Echavarria all of Mercedes and daughters Mary Lou (Emilio) Garcia of Mercedes, Leticia (Edmundo Jr.) Leandro of McAllen, Ester (Ernest) Jillpas of Killeen, Texas and Nellie Villalobos of Mercedes. He is also survived by brothers Herculano Casas, Ricardo Sierra, and sister Gloria Martinez.
He considered his greatest blessing in life to have known and loved 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren whom he showered with affection each and every day.
Tiger Stadium will now have one less avid fan in the bleachers but Roy will continue cheering on the Tigers from a seat with a better view.
A viewing will be held Monday, April 22nd from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. with a rosary to be prayed at 7 p.m. at Garcia & Trevino Funeral Home in Mercedes, Texas.
Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Mercedes at 2 p.m.
Internment will follow at Heavenly Grace Memorial Park in LaFeria.
The family would like to give thanks to Dr. Lim and nurses at Knapp Medical Center.
Special thanks to Dr. Daniel Farray for his care and kindness.
Sign the guestbook at www.valleystar.com.