ZAPATA, TEXAS— With heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Juan Antonio Villarreal 93, who entered eternal rest on June 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Dad was born on November 27, 1931, in Nueva Ciudad Guerrero, TAMPS., Mexico, and from the very beginning, his life was one of perseverance, strength, and unwavering love. Raised in poverty, he began working at a young age to help support his family. Through hard work and determination, he built a life rooted in strong values and unwavering faith.

At a young age, he married the love of his life, Carmen H. Villarreal, and together they raised a beautiful and loving family. Their bond was a testament to lifelong devotion, and through their union, they were blessed with nine children and one adoptive granddaughter; Enedina (Alfredo) Rios, Juan Antonio (Mirta), Villarreal Jr. Omar (Oralia) Villarreal, Ovid (Delia) Villarreal, † Jaime Villarreal, Jesus Angel (Ana) Villarreal, Carmen Villarreal, Rene (Silvia) Villarreal, Lupita (Rudy) Alvarez, Margarita (David) Barrera; thirty-six grandchildren.

Dad found joy in the simple things—hunting trips with his sons, family gatherings during the holidays, and spending quality time with his children, 36 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

He had a way of lighting up a room with his humor, his stories, and his unforgettable sayings. Whether it was a playful "Rao, rao, rao," a cheerful "Okie dokie," or his classic responses, "Thank you very much," or "Pos yo no se", his words made people smile.

And when asked how he was feeling, he'd often respond with a humble heart:

"Yo muy bien, de que yo sepa, yo no tengo nada, gracias a Dios."

"Yo me siento igual. Gracias a la Santísima Virgen. Gracias a Diosito."

And perhaps most memorably:

"Todos tenemos una línea que no vemos. Yo no sé por qué Dios todavía me tiene aquí, pero pues aquí andamos hasta que Él diga."

These words, full of gratitude, faith, and acceptance, reflect the man he was; grounded, wise, and full of quiet grace.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find peace in knowing he has been reunited with our beautiful mother and our beloved brother Jaime in the arms of our Lord. And even though he is no longer with us in body, his love, values, and unforgettable spirit will live on in each of us - his children.

We are forever grateful for the life he lived, the sacrifices he made, and the love he gave so freely.

Rest peacefully, Dad. Your legacy will never be forgotten.

And in Dad's famous words - "Ay te veo, chato".

Visitation hours will be held Friday, June 27, 2025, from 6:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Rose Garden Funeral Home.

On Saturday, June 28, 2025, family and friends will meet at 10:00 a.m. for funeral mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Zapata, Texas.

Committal services will follow at Zapata County Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, Funeral Director, 2102 N. US HWY 83 Zapata, Texas.