Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
2009
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
UPCOMING SERVICE
Rafael Villarreal Obituary
November 24, 2009 - October 5, 2025
Rafael Jeven Villarreal, age 15, passed away on October 5, 2025. Born November 24, 2009, Rafael was a beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend. He was known for his radiant spirit, artistic talent, and love of sharks, dinosaurs, video games, and pride in his Latino heritage.
Despite bravely battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Rafael inspired others with his resilience, humor, and compassion. He is survived by his parents, Juan Villarreal Jr. and Jessica Villarreal; siblings Jessalyn Camacho, Juan Carlos III, Jaydelyn Villarreal, and Anthony Salazar; grandparents Bertha Salazar, Mary Elizabeth Paiz, and Susan and Geoffrey Merritt; and many loving family and friends.
The family thanks his dedicated caregivers, especially Anthony Bueno, VITAS Healthcare, and UT Health San Antonio. In honor of Rafael's vibrant spirit, attendees are asked to wear purple or bright colors to his funeral. Visitation: Wednesday 10/15/2025 starting at 5:00 pm with Rosary to follow at MeadowLawn Funeral Home. Funeral: Thursday 10/16/2025 at 10:00 am at Holy Name Catholic Church.
Rafael's legacy of love, courage, and creativity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Rafael Villarreal
Funeral services provided by:
MeadowLawn Funeral Home, Crematory and Cemetery5611 E. Houston, San Antonio, TX 78220
Memories and Condolences
for Rafael Villarreal
Sponsored by MeadowLawn Funeral Home, Crematory and Cemetery.
1 Entry
Lisa Pfeil
October 8, 2025
Rafael is one of the coolest kids I've ever met. It was an honor to be his nurse at EC. He would say some of the funniest things and crack us up! We looked forward to seeing his smile and listen to him talk about the "honeys". He definitely taught us to never take the simple things for granted. He touched my heart and I think of him often! He may be gone from this earth but he will NEVER be forgotten!
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Rafael Villarreal's name
How to support Rafael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Rafael Villarreal's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
