Fernando G. de la Garza

Fernando Guadalupe De La Garza, 85, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, September 27, 2025, following a brief illness. He was born on September 10, 1940, in Edinburg, Texas, to Guadalupe de la Garza and Leonor Gorena de la Garza.

Fernando graduated from Edinburg High School in 1959 before proudly serving in the United States Navy. He was stationed aboard the USS Newman K. Perry, where he traveled to ports around the world and participated in the Cuban missile crisis. Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Maria Teresa “Wera” de la Garza, on April 2, 1967. Together in Edinburg, they built a beautiful life and raised their three children, Fernando Jr., Maribel, and Carlos.

Fernando enjoyed a long career in insurance sales and was especially grateful for the friendships he formed at Valley Insurance Services. He cherished his bond with his partners, Skipper and Ken, and now the three are reunited once again.  

As a father, Fernando was a true role model. He shared his knowledge and love through everyday lessons and memorable moments: teaching Fernando Jr. the game of golf, giving Maribel her first driving lessons (though some say she may have skipped a few!), and passing down his love of the outdoors to Carlos through fishing and hunting. The wisdom and values he instilled continue to live on through his grandchildren.

Fernando’s passions were many, and he embraced them fully. A devoted golfer, he was a familiar face at Ebony Hills Golf Course, where he enjoyed countless rounds with friends—most especially with his best friend, Cito Luna—with many now waiting for him in heaven for their next tee time. He was also an avid outdoorsman, cherishing the days he spent fishing and hunting with his uncles, brother, cousins, and nephews particularly his beloved Uncle Jesse de la Garza. Service to his community was central to Fernando’s life. For many years, he was an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Edinburg, where he held leadership roles and joyfully dedicated his time to raising scholarship funds for local students. In addition, Fernando was a member and volunteer for the American Legion Alfredo “Freddy” Gonzalez Post 408.

Above all, Fernando’s greatest joy was his grandchildren: David Adam, Dante Diego, Nathan Andrew, Miranda Lydia, Lucas Ian, and Benjamin Carlos. To each of them he lovingly greeted, “Mijito Lindo” or “Mijita Linda.” His only granddaughter, Miranda, held a particularly special place in his heart.

Fernando is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria Teresa “Wera: de la Garza; parents, Guadalupe and Leonor de la Garza; his brother, Miguel Angel de la Garza.

He is survived by his children, Fernando G. (Claudia) de la Garza Jr., Maribel McKinsey, and Carlos J. (Rebecca) de la Garza; his six grandchildren; two sisters, Yolanda Barrera and Alma Trevino; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg, with a rosary at 6:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, at Sacred Heart Church in Edinburg. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg. 

Serving as pallbearers will be Fernando De La Garza Jr., Carlos De La Garza, Nathan Torres, Imer de la Garza, Noel de la Garza, and John de la Garza.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Letty Brambila Zavalza and Lupita Coahizo, who lovingly cared for Fernando in recent years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Fernando’s name to the Kiwanis Club of Edinburg, TX.

Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.