Juan Francisco Diaz

1939 - 2025

Harlingen - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Juan Francisco (Pancho) Diaz, who left us peacefully on March 22, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Born in Encarnacion de Diaz, Jalisco in 1939 to Evangelina Villalobos, Pancho (lovingly known as Papo to his children and grandchildren) grew up with the values of reverence to God, hard work, integrity, and humility that would define his life.

Raised with humble beginnings and 1 of 7 children, Pancho learned early on the importance of hard work, integrity, and family, serving as a father figure for his siblings: Carlos Diaz (Concepcion), Antonio Diaz +, Paula Garza (Jesse +), Socorro Garcia (Tomas +), Alfredo Diaz +, and Amelia Garcia (Baldomero +) as well as many nieces and nephews.

He spent many of his early years working at The Hi-Way Inn where he diligently worked his way up from bussing tables, dishwasher, cook, cashier, and eventually to Restaurant Manager, running the only 24 hour restaurant in the Rio Grande Valley. Although he spoke only broken English, he was known by law enforcement, truck drivers, and public officials and was quick to start up a conversation with a stranger. It was here that he met the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Ledesma Diaz, a happy, go lucky cheerleader type who he married and started a family with. The Hi-Way Inn was also where he impacted many families by sponsoring laborers with employment and provided a means to bring their families to the United States legally in the 1960s.

Always an early riser, his love for the outdoors led him to continue his work in landscaping and maintenance at TSTC. These early experiences not only supported his family, but were also where lifelong friendships were formed and continue to this day.

A responsible and generous man, his selflessness and giving nature knew no bounds. Once winning at church Bingo, he replaced the roof on his home, his mother's home, and his in -laws' home simultaneously. He was also known to give up vehicles to those in need.

Pancho was the original Angel Investor in Medical and Trauma Specialists, LP (MTS EMS). This company, founded by his son Daniel (Dan) 26 years ago, employed his children which helped make MTS EMS a success in its start-up years and beyond. His initial investment continues bearing fruit by the thousands of patients served as well as hundreds of medical professionals that have benefitted from EMS scholarships, grants, training and employment. His selfless investment helped shaped the emergency medical services in Hidalgo County and beyond. There is not one EMS company in the Rio Grande Valley that does not have ties to MTS EMS' origination in 1999. At a time where there was lack of services or budgets, MTS provided EMS and 911 services to several small cities with a zero subsidy, positively impacting communities across South Texas.

Throughout his life, Pancho valued his family above all else. His most treasured possessions were not material, but the moments spent with his loved ones. He was a devoted husband to Elizabeth (Betty) Ledesma Diaz +, a loving father to Francisco (Aurelia), Daniel (Brenda), Elizabeth Lisa (Edgar), and Ricardo (Aracely) and an adoring grandfather to his 11 grandchildren. His family was his pride and joy, and he found immense happiness in their accomplishments and well-being. He never missed a gig to watch his son Rick play with Los Gavilanes at all the bailes in the Valley. You would often find him cooking at any BBQ and benefits in the community.

Pancho leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and the simple truth that the greatest wealth in life is the bond we share with our family. His warm smile, spirit, grit, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of Pancho Diaz at a memorial service to be held on Friday, March 28, 2025; visitation from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm with rosary at 7:00 pm at Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen, TX.

The funeral will take place on Saturday, March 29, 2025, departing the funeral home at 9:30 am for a 10:00 am Mass of Christian Burial at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Harlingen, Texas with Father John Sawchenko as celebrant (where Pancho and Betty were married). Interment to follow at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in La Feria, Texas.

Honored pallbearers: Frank Diaz, Dan Diaz, Rick Diaz, Edgar Herrera, Sebastian Herrera, Robbie Diaz, Anthony Diaz, Danny Diaz II, all led by Diego Diaz.

Rest in peace Papo. You are a HERO to so many and have left an indelible mark in our hearts. You forever be remembered with love and affection.

The family would like to thank Edinburg Regional Medical Center, Emergency Room, 3rd floor nurses and staff, and administration for the dedicated love and care for Pancho. Special thanks to Joe Perales, FNP and Arborview SNF for his care in his last days. La familia esta eternamente agradecidos por la constante presencia y apoyo de Maribel y Marisela Salinas durante los ultimos años de la vida de su papa.