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Richard Tobin Obituary
December 17, 1948 - December 10, 2025
With great sadness, we announce the passing of Richard H. Tobin Jr. (Ricky), who departed this life on December 10, 2025, at the age of 76. Richard was born on December 17, 1948, in San Antonio, Texas, to Richard H. Tobin Sr. and Gloria Cadena Tobin.
Richard was a devoted husband to Carolina "Kurly" Tobin, his loving wife of 55 years; a dedicated father to Lisa Tobin Butler (Scott Butler); and a proud and loving grandfather to his grandson, Jason Butler.
Richard was a hardworking family man who valued education deeply. He attended Lee High School in San Antonio, Texas, earned his undergraduate degree from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, and later graduated with a master's degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. These accomplishments laid the foundation for a lifelong career in education. He served the Edgewood Independent School District and San Antonio Independent School District with dedication as a teacher, principal, and Human Resources professional.
Outside of his professional life, Richard embraced a full and meaningful life. He enjoyed spending time at his ranch, working cattle, hunting, and being with family and friends. He was an avid reader with a deep love for history and ancestry, taking great pride in researching his family's roots and preserving their stories for future generations.
Richard's kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, dedication, and compassion that touched all who knew him.
Richard is survived by his wife, Carolina "Kurly" Tobin; his daughter, Lisa Tobin Butler; son-in-law, Scott Butler; grandson, Jason Butler; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in San Antonio, Texas, on January 30, 2026 beginning with a Rosary at 10:00 a.m. with a Mass to follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Tobin
Carla Rutledge
January 30, 2026
When we first moved across the street in 2005, Rick and Kurly were the first neighbors who introduced themselves. From then on, we´ve became good friends. We will always cherish their friendship and the memories of Ricky. Our prayers go out to his family.
Nancy Demel
January 30, 2026
I worked for Richard Tobin at J. T. Brackenridge. He Was the best principal that I ever worked for. With his leadship and positive, compassionate support, we made it through every challenge. He left a positive impact on the school and the staff. Thank you for being a wonderful principal and a good Friend. Nancy Demel
Rita Roach
January 21, 2026
I was deeply heart broken to hear of Richard´s passing. He was a remarkable mentor and an even more remarkable person.
I will always remember how caring and kind he was with my sons during their years at Woodlawn Elementary so many years ago. His warmth left a lasting impression on our family. I also loved hearing his stories about rounding up bulls on his ranch in San Diego, Texas-stories that reflected both his grit and his wonderful sense of humor.
He had exceptional personal skills and a genuine way with people that meant so much to me professionally as well. His guidance and support were invaluable when I was recruiting teachers for SAISD, and I will always be grateful for his encouragement and wisdom.
He will be truly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Please accept my deepest condolences and wishes for comfort and peace during this difficult time.
With sympathy,
Rita Roach
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Earl J. Bullock, Jr.
January 20, 2026
My condolences and prayers are sent to the Tobin family. Richard and I were colleagues in SAISD as elementary school principals in the 80´s - 90´s.
May he rest in peace.
Earl J. Bullock, Jr.
Pat Gaddy
January 17, 2026
We met Kurly and Ricky at an antique show in Tennessee.. Kurly and I had visited on a blog for some time.. We weren't strangers, but we met for the first time at the antique show. It felt like we had known Ricky and Kurly right from the beginning. Such kind, loving folks, later I visited with Ricky at least bi-monthly...He always had something humorous to say. We love them both and will miss him more than I can say.....
Velma Garza
January 17, 2026
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mr. Tobin was a great principal, educator, and friend. His friendship with my dad will always be treasured in my heart. Mr. Tobin gave me the opportunity to start teaching 35 years ago at Woodlawn (SAISD) and still there. He served as a great role model for me throughout his years at Woodlawn and Central Office. My prayers are with his entire family. Rest in Peace, Mr. Tobin
Martin and Juanita Solis
January 16, 2026
Heartfelt condolences on the loss of Mr. Tobin, love and prayers for his family, Juanita and Martin Solis
Cruz Flores
January 16, 2026
I met Richard when I was working at Central Office with SAISD. Richard was a great person, always willing to help. I always enjoyed the conversations we had. He will be miss very much.
My deepest condolences to his family. Rest in Peace, Richard!
Diana Canavan
January 15, 2026
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I knew Rick as a neighbor (FCV ) and fellow SAISD employee. May he rest in peace .
Cesar Alejandro Garcia
January 15, 2026
My deepest condolences to the family. Ricky and I are 3rd cousins and we knew each other since our playmate days. We always played cowboys & Indians as children along with our other cousins---this was in San Diego, Texas. I remember living with him and his parents for awhile when I attended Durham´s Business College in San Antonio. His mom (my 2nd cousin) and his Dad (Calo) treated me like a member of their family. Ricky was such a kind and loving person. I will never forget them. Rest in Peace primo.
Wilma Esparza
January 15, 2026
Although we had many mutual acquaintances from South Texas, I met Rick when we both worked at working at SAISD. He was always such a helpful and kind gentleman.
My deepest condolences to his family. Rest in Peace, Rick.
Richard Perez class of 1967
January 15, 2026
I would like to extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the Tobin family and so sorry to hear of Rick's passing ... I knew and remember Rick from school at Robert E Lee High , may you RIP old friend
Roger Rodriguez
January 15, 2026
We will miss Richard and his friendship. He was such a great person. God Bless him and his family.
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