Eric L. Lugo

Eric Lee Lugo, a dedicated servant of unshakable faith, entered eternity on September 27, 2025, in Spring, Texas, after a courageous battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Born on October 08, 1986, in Corpus Christi, Texas, he was the epitome of strength, endurance, and resilience throughout his life.

Eric's early years were spent in Edinburg, Texas, where he forged a deep and enduring bond with his childhood friend, Charity, at the Rock Outreach and her father's ranch, where barbecues, goats, and wild ponies provided the backdrop for cherished memories and a relationship with Jesus. He graduated from Edinburg North High School and enrolled at the University of Texas Pan American. However, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, profoundly impacted his sense of duty and prompted a higher calling. Following that call, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in the 75th Ranger Regiment, 3rd Battalion. When asked why he joined the military, he replied, "If not me, then who?" His exemplary service included five combat deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan, during which he executed numerous high-risk missions with Tony, earning accolades for his many contributions to Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Following his honorable discharge as Sergeant in 2010, Eric returned to Afghanistan with Triple Canopy, providing private security for the U.S. Military. Thereafter, he completed a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from UHD and joined the Department of Homeland Security with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in January 2015. Eric thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie of his ICE colleagues, specifically his Special Response Team brothers, and the ever-changing priorities of the mission. Whether he was operating high-risk charter flights to the Middle East with Alpesh, monitoring escalating situations high above South America with Julio, or knee-deep in Houston area swamps tracking murderers with Tyson, Eric always returned with a good story to tell.

Eric was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer on October 02, 2023. Nevertheless, he did not change course. He married Charity, continued to work, and continued to travel the globe until his world was turned upside down on June 26, 2025. Emergencies, surgeries, and hospital stays attempted to derail his hope for healing, but he stood firm and took heart until the very end.

Eric leaves behind his beloved pets, Piper Posey and Tuna Boy, spouse, parents, two brothers, and nieces and nephews, along with a legacy of unwavering commitment to his country, community, and the kingdom. His time on earth embodies the virtues of courage, integrity, and service. His indelible mark on the lives he touched will not be forgotten, as he is remembered for his dedication to do hard things well, answer the call of not only country, but of the gospel, and to trust Jesus even in the middle of indescribable suffering. When asked what made him special or different during any stage of his life, he'd always say, "Jesus."

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" – Isaiah 6:8