Reverend Manuel N. Garza Jr. of Corpus Christi, TX, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
Some stories deserve to be told slowly. This is one of them.
What is given freely returns in ways we cannot measure.
Reverend Manuel N. Garza, Jr., a devoted servant of God, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and spiritual guide to countless souls, passed away peacefully in his sleep in the wee hours of April 23, 2026, at the age of 91 surrounded in spirit by the love of his family and the faith that shaped his life's work.
Born with a calling to ministry, Reverend Garza dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel, uplifting communities, and walking beside others through their most joyful and most difficult moments. His sermons were known for their warmth and wisdom. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit - he was a counselor, a mentor, a steady presence, and a friend to all who sought comfort or guidance.
Throughout his decades of service, Reverend Garza touched lives across every generation. He baptized children, blessed marriages, prayed over the sick, and celebrated the milestones of the families he served. His legacy is carried in the faith he nurtured, the hope he restored, and the love he shared so generously.
He is preceded in death by loved ones who welcomed him home in glory by his parents, two brothers and two sisters.
He is survived by family who will forever cherish his gentle spirit, his humor, his stories, and the deep well of love he poured into their lives: His wife of 70 years, Gloria Deleon Garza, daughters Judith Garza Brun, husband Henry Brun, Suzanne Garza and son Paul Manuel Garza, wife Karen Garza. Grandchildren, Nicholas Valenzuela wife Rebecca, Robyn Escamilla husband Josue Escamilla, Jacob Valenzuela, Neely Tara Martinez and Pauline Garza. Great Grandchildren, Janelle Segovia, Nayeli and Caleb Valenzuela. His sisters, Rev. Marta Alaniz, husband Thomas Alaniz-deceased, Marion Cusimano, husband AJ Cusimano-deceased, Rachel Garza and Margaret Gonzales, husband Romeo Gonzales.
Reverend Manuel N. Garza, Jr. he entered the ministry at the age of 15 and graduated from Latin American Bible Institute in 1953. His first church assignment was Templo Betel in Pharr, Texas. He also pastored at Templo La Trinidad in Rio Hondo, Texas, as well as an assignment at Templo Cristiano in Kansas City, Missouri.
In 1964, he accepted the call to lead the congregation of Templo Betel Assembly of God in Kingsville, Texas, where he faithfully pastored for 59 years until his retirement in August of 2022.
Reverend Garza's life was a testament to humility, devotion, and grace. Though he has entered eternal rest, his influence endures in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers the family has asked that you consider donating to the Scholarship Memorial Fund being established in memory of Rev. Manuel Garza, Jr. for students who will graduate and enter the Pastoral Care Ministry.
Funeral Arrangements: Viewing and Service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
A Celebration of Life Service will follow on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Seaside Memorial Park.
All services will take place at The Chapel at Seaside Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 4357 Ocean Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78412. Phone: (361) 992-9411
May he rest in everlasting peace.
