IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Oscar Garza

Oscar Garza Jr. Profile Photo

Jr.

July 12, 1934 – July 28, 2025

Obituary

Oscar Garza, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, peacefully passed away at the age of 91 on July 28, 2025, in his hometown of Corpus Christi, Texas. Born on July 12, 1934, Oscar lived a life full of love, compassion, and service, leaving behind a lasting impression on all who knew him. Oscar was the son of the late Oscar Sr. and Margarita Longoria Garza. He grew up in a close-knit family and was instilled with strong values and a sense of community from an early age. His commitment to family was unwavering, always putting his siblings, children, and grandchildren before himself. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved son, Oscar III., and his siblings: brothers Raul and Richard Garza, and sister Delia Garza. He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Celia Olga (Salinas) Garza, and his children who were the pride of his life: daughter Dalinda "Dolly" Ann Lasater (Roger) of Wylie, Texas, and son Steve Albert Garza (MaryAnn) of Corpus Christi, Texas. Oscar's legacy continues through his two grandchildren, Aaron Sydney Zeriali of Fairview, Texas, and Zoe Ann Garza and step-grandson Justin Keith Moreno (Martha) of Corpus Christi, Texas. Additionally, he is survived by two brothers, Edmund Sr., and John Sr., along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who cherished their time with him.

Oscar graduated from W.B. Ray High School in 1952 and then attended Del Mar College before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. He traveled extensively during his service, including North Africa and Morocco and loved sharing stories of his military adventures. Oscar was honorably discharged from the U.S. Air Force in 1957, and his military service instilled a strong sense of discipline and duty that he carried throughout his life. He used the G.I. Bill to attend Texas A&I University in Kingsville, earning his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in 1961. He had a lifelong love of learning.

Oscar's journey in life was enriched by his marriage to Celia in 1962 in Corpus Christi. Together, they shared countless memories filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Oscar was a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church for over 50 years, contributing his time and energy to the Men's Club and various church committees that enhanced the church community and school. He valued close relationships with the late Monsignor Patrick Higgins and Monsignor Roger Smith guiding his spiritual life. Oscar partnered with his family operating Agnes Furniture Sales and Garza Furniture for over 60 years, leaving a significant footprint in the West Side business community. He was a founding member of the West Side Business Association (WBA). He was on the board of directors for both Nueces National Bank and First National Bank and served as Chairman of the Board for many years.

Oscar's interests were as diverse as his talents. He had a lifelong passion for aviation, owning his own airplane in his younger years. A true enthusiast of mechanics, he loved cars and owned many throughout his life. His talent for photography was evident as he captured life's moments, often serving as the photographer for large events. He was also an avid bowler and enjoyed being part of a bowling league for many years. His love for travel allowed him to explore various cultures, traditions, and cuisines, and he cherished moments spent outdoors, particularly at his ranch. An avid sports fan, Oscar supported the Houston Astros, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, and the Texas Tech University football and basketball teams with great enthusiasm. His heart was happiest during family gatherings, where he delighted in catching up with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying good meals. He was known for his sweet tooth, especially for anything chocolate, and loved to dance and sing with those around him.

Oscar's legacy of kindness, compassion, and dedication to family and community will live on in the hearts and lives of all who were blessed enough to know him. Oscar Garza, Jr. will be dearly missed by family, friends, and the community he served. His impact on the lives of those around him was profound, as he was known for his humility, compassion, and generosity in helping others. Oscar had a passion for everyone; he truly never met a stranger. Rest in peace. Your journey was filled with love and laughter, and your spirit will continue to inspire those whose lives you touched.

A public visitation will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Guardian Funeral Home, 5922 Crosstown Access Rd, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78417 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 6:30pm. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00pm on Saturday August 9, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 3350 S. Alameda St, Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 followed by burial at Rose Hill Memorial Park, 2731 Comanche, Corpus Christi, Texas 78408.

Having the distinguished honor to serve as pallbearers are Aaron Sydney Zeriali, Justin Keith Moreno, Richard Garza, Jr., John Garza, Jr., Mark Garza, and Tristan Hernandez.

The family would like to extend sincere appreciation for the kindness, compassionate care, and professionalism provided by the doctors and nurses at Christus Spohn Hospital Shoreline, the staff at Angel Bright Hospice and especially Dr. Gerard Voorhees.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church, 3350 S. Alameda St., Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 or a charity of your choice in Oscar's memory.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Oscar Garza Jr., please visit our flower store.

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