Charlie V. Padilla

Charlie V. Padilla, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas, at the age of 85. Born on June 9, 1940, in Mathis, Texas, Charlie lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for his family and community.

Charlie devoted much of his career to trucking, a profession he cherished until his retirement in 2005. He also spent many years working for Bay and GP Materials. His commitment to his work was rivaled only by his passion for family gatherings, where he enjoyed playing horseshoes and barbequing at his mother’s house.

An avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Charlie’s spirited enthusiasm for the team was well-known among his family and friends, serving as a reminder of his joyful and lively personality. He also proudly served in the United States Army, exemplifying his dedication to his country.

Charlie is survived by his two cherished sons, Charlie Padilla Jr. and Christobal (Susana) Padilla, along with ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren who will remember him fondly. His siblings, Elena Palacios, Rafael Ybarra, Baudelia Padilla, Elisella Farias, Esmeralda Moreno, Ismael (Moe) Padilla, Jose Luis Padilla, Francisco Padilla, and Rosa Padilla, also carry forward his legacy.

Charlie is reunited with his beloved wife, Estella Ortiz Padilla, whose memory continues to live on in the hearts of those they loved. Additionally, he was preceded in death by his parents, Encarnacion and Anita Padilla; and siblings, Cecilia Guerrero, Leonard Padilla, Francisca Montez, Amelia Galvan, Elisa Garibay, Jesus Padilla, Victor Padilla, Alejandro Padilla, Alberto Padilla, Reynaldo Padilla, Encarnacion Padilla, Alicia Farias, and Graciela Padilla.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and CNAs at River Ridge Nursing and Rehab, to the nurses and staff at Tribute Hospice, as well as to Susana Padilla and Samantha Padilla with Touch of Peace Homecare, for their compassionate care and support during this time.

Visitation will begin at 5 PM on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Winsteads' Funeral Home, where a Holy Rosary will be recited that same evening at 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Rite of Committal and Interment with Final Military Honors will begin at 1 PM that same afternoon and be held at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Texas.

For those who wish to express their condolences, you are welcome to send flowers or sympathy gifts directly to the family using the button provided below. Additionally, you may share your heartfelt condolences with the family below by adding an entry on the online guest book.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads' Funeral Home. 361-547-3224 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com

Charlie's warm spirit and unwavering love for his family and friends will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever remain a source of light and inspiration to all who knew him.