Julio Omar Lacayo

Julio Omar Lacayo age 49 of Galveston passed away Friday, February 21, 2025, at Jennie Sealy Hospital in Galveston. Funeral Mass is 10:00am Thursday, February 27, 2025, at St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Galveston under the direction of Carnes Brothers Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Wednesday from 5:00pm until 8:00 pm where a rosary will be recited at 6:30pm.
Julio Omar Lacayo was born in Managua, Nicaragua, on April 28, 1975. The firstborn son of Dianora Vargas, he was immediately cherished by his family. In 1978, he, Dianora, and Paco Vargas moved to Houston, making the United States their new home. Julio was a bright and intelligent young student, learning English almost immediately. In 1979, he welcomed his little brother, Juan Vargas, into the family and adored him. The two were inseparable, spending countless hours playing superheroes together-Julio's favorite being Superman.
In 1983, the family moved to Galveston, Texas, where Julio welcomed another sibling, his little sister, Denise Vargas. Julio attended Parker Elementary School as a child, was a Boy Scout, and played Little League baseball. At Central Middle School, he discovered his passion for music, joining the band and playing the euphonium. He continued to cultivate his musical talents at Ball High School, where he marched in the band during numerous Mardi Gras parades and football games. Julio graduated from Ball High in 1993 with the highest honors and was inducted into the National Honor Society.
With a scholarship, Julio went on to study music at the University of East Texas in Commerce, Texas.
In 2006, he met the love of his life, Luisa Murcia. Together, they enjoyed traveling to Mexico, Belize, and Roatán, as well as sharing a love for movies. They were married in 2016 and settled in Galveston.
In 2018, Julio joined his family business and co-founded Vargas Cut & Catch with his brother and sister. His dedication and passion for the restaurant business were evident every day. As the Director of Operations, Julio was instrumental in creating and managing the restaurant's success. He could often be found at Vargas, listening to classical music as he poured himself into his work. He humbly took care of guests over the phone, planning memorable experiences for them. Soft-spoken and gentle by nature, Julio was loved by many.
As committed as he was to the family business, Julio's dedication to his family was even greater. He was a devoted husband, son, brother, and uncle to his two nieces and two nephews. When he wasn't working, he spent all his time with his wife, Luisa, and his family. Generous with his time and always available for his loved ones, Julio was their superhero. He will forever be remembered for his gentleness, kindness, and unwavering love.
He was preceded in death by his father, Julio Lacayo, and his brother, Juan Vargas. He is survived by his wife, Luisa Murcia; his mother, Dianora Vargas; his father, Francisco "Paco" Vargas; his sister, Denise Vargas, and brother-in-law, Guillermo Escobar; and his nieces and nephew, Sofia, Isabella, and Juan Escobar. He is also survived by his mother- and father-in-law, Magdalena and Hernan Murcia; his brothers-in-law, Oliver and Luisa Triana, and Jorge H. and Alejandra Murcia; his sister-in-law, Vivian Murcia; and his nephew, Jacob Triana.
Pallbearers are Oliver Triana, Jorge Murcia, Herman Murcia, Guillermo Escobar, Will Mejia and Jimmy Banos.
Forever loved and greatly missed.