Carlos Villagran III, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and favorite uncle, passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 85 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Born and raised in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico, Carlos carried the values of hard work and ambition with him when he emigrated to Texas in 1970. Settling in Corpus Christi, he built a life defined by entrepreneurship and an unbreakable commitment to his family. A true self-made man, Carlos was a master craftsman—an expert cabinetmaker and builder whose hands built both homes and lasting legacies. Throughout his career as a contractor and the owner of his own tire and auto shop, he was known as much for his integrity as he was for his technical brilliance.

To those who knew him best, Carlos was "Papí"—the heart of the family. He found his greatest joy in hosting lively barbecues and trompos, bringing together friends and relatives for food, laughter, and community. His generosity knew no bounds; he was the first to offer help to a friend in need and the last to leave a gathering where stories were being told.

He is preceded in death by his son, Carlos Villagran IV; his parents, Carlos Villagran Cano II and Maria Ines Mercado Orosco; and his sister, Dora Villagran Villarreal.

Carlos’s memory will be cherished by his devoted wife, Martha Elva Orona; his daughters, Susana Villagran Majors, Cecilia Villagran-Moreida (Francisco), and Martha Villagran Vega; and his sisters, Irene Villagran Otzuka and Blanca Armida Villagran Mercado. He also leaves behind a legacy of strength in his grandchildren: Marisa Vega, Francisco Carlos Moreida, Esteban Moreida, Antonio Vega IV, Alejandro Vega, and Monica Vega, as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews, including Blanca Ibonne Acosta Villagran, Omar Alire Acosta, and Alan Alire Acosta.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Maria Mendoza, Gloria Garza, Francis Trevizo, Esmeralda Garza, and Esmeralda's Group Home for their compassionate care and support.

Service Information:

A Rosary followed by a memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at Guardian Funeral Home located at 5922 Crosstown Access Rd Corpus Christi, Texas 78417. Visitation to start at 3:00pm, Holy Rosary at 4:00pm followed by a memorial service.