Juan Romeo De La Garza Sr.

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Juan Romeo de la Garza Sr., who entered eternal rest on March 23, 2026, at the age of 84. A lifelong resident of Mission, Texas, whose life was defined by dedication to family, community, and the sports he loved.

Romeo was born on November 23, 1941, to Napoleon and Emilia Guerra de la Garza. He built a beautiful life alongside his beloved wife of 62 years, Norma Gloria Garcia. Together, they raised three children: Cynthia de la Garza Ramos (Miguel Jr. Romeo de la Garza, Jr. (Zita), and Aissa de la Garza (Ricardo Renteria), and grandchildren Brianna Ramos Isenhour (Christian) and Miguel Ramos (Cynthia), Charlize, Elijah, and Nathaniel de la Garza (Romeo Jr.), Ahliyah and Ahlanhi Renteria (Aissa) and great grandchild Elliana Isenhour. He was always very proud of his grandchildren who brought him immense joy and pride.

A proud graduate of Mission High School, Class of 1961, Romeo was a talented athlete, lettering in both basketball and baseball. His love for sports extended far beyond his youth. After attending Pan American University and starting his family, he began a remarkable career not only in public service, but also in sports officiating that spanned over 33 years. Sports officiating was not only hobby, it was a passion that he held deep in his heart. He officiated NCAA women's basketball in the Sun Belt and American Southern Conferences, along with countless high school basketball and football games. Known for his integrity, fairness, and passion, Romeo became a respected figure in the officiating community and served as an assigning secretary for the Texas Association of Sports Officials.

Romeo's love for baseball was lifelong. From his early days playing Little League across several states to becoming a district champion with the Mission High School baseball team in 1961, and later a semi-professional player, baseball remained close to his heart. He continued to give back to the sport as a coach, umpire, and leader, serving as President of the Mission Colt League and Director of Pony Baseball.

Beyond athletics, Romeo was deeply committed to serving his community. He held numerous leadership roles, including Executive Director of the Mission Boys' and Girls' Club, and served on several boards, including St. Paul's Catholic Church, South Texas ISD, and the Mission Housing Authority. He was also an active member of organizations such as the Knights of Columbus, Mission Lions Club, and the Mission Jaycees, where he was honored as JC of the Year. For two decades, he faithfully served as a City of Mission and Hidalgo County Election Judge.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Romeo was inducted into the Leo Najo Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on sports and his community.

Romeo de la Garza Sr. will be remembered as a man of integrity, deep faith, and unwavering dedication. He touched countless lives through his mentorship, leadership, and example. His legacy lives on in his family, in the countless lives he touched, and in the community he helped shape. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, a mentor, and a friend to many.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission, Texas. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission.

He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.