Antonio "Tony" Alanis

Antonio (Tony) Espronceda Alanis, 100, of Anton passed away peacefully in his home on February 4, 2026. He was born July 3, 1925, in Villa de Santiago, Nuevo Leon, Mexico to parents, Jose and Angelita Alanis.

Tony was one of nine kids. He grew up in Mexico and resided there until 1950. He came to the US on a work visa and eventually became a US citizen, which was one of his proudest accomplishments. He had various careers over the years, including farming, logging, and welding, to name a few. He retired from Eagle Pitcher as a welder in 1994.

Tony married Marciala Rodulfo in 1950. Together they had two sons: Johnny (Janie) of Duncanville and Albert (Debra) of Anton. Tony was Grandpa to five: Jessica Alanis (Adam Bradford) of Dallas, Jason Alanis (Mary) of Duncanville, Bethany Williams (Austin) of Midland; Jordan Alanis (Amanda) of Big Spring and Carlos Alanis of Lubbock. Grandpa had nine great-grandchildren: Jason Alanis, Jr, (Duncanville), Julianna Alanis (Duncanville) Anthony Lozano (San Antonio); Brynnlee, Everly, Hattie Williams (Midland) and Amelia, Jaxton, and Noah Alanis (Big Spring).

To know Tony was to know what steady love looked like. He was a hard worker in every sense of the word. He showed his love through action–by providing, by showing up, and by never being afraid of honest work. He believed in doing things the right way, even when no one was watching. He loved being outside and found a simple joy in nature, especially in his garden. To him, gardening wasn't just a hobby. It was patience, care, and faith all wrapped into one. He planted, nurtured, and waited, trusting that with time and love, something beautiful would grow. That's exactly how he lived his life and raised his family.

Tony was also a man of deep faith. His faith grounded him, guided him, and carried him through life's challenges. It shaped the way he treated others–with kindness, compassion, and grace. He didn't just speak his beliefs; he lived them. Even with all that strength, he had such a wonderful sense of humor. He could make you laugh when it was least expected, often with a quiet joke or a knowing smile. He was caring and kind, always thinking of others before himself, and making everyone feel loved just by being near him.

Antonio was preceded in death by his parents, 8 siblings, and his wife. The family would like to express our gratitude to Martha Garcia, Juanita Garcia, and Gentiva Hospice for the loving care and kindness they showed to him in his last days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Anton Cemetery P.O. Box 413 Anton, Texas 79313.

The family will receive visitors on Monday evening from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Graveside service will be held at the Anton Cemetery on Tuesday, February 10th at 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements are under the personal care of Hillcrest Funeral Home.