Antonio Villalobos

EDINBURG - Antonio (Tony) Villalobos, 82, entered eternal rest on Sunday, August 4, 2024. Mr. Villalobos is preceded in death by his parents, Geronimo and Modesta Guajardo Villalobos; 7 siblings, Matias Villalobos, Antonio Villalobos, Guadalupe Villalobos, Tomas Villalobos, Angelina Villalobos Garza, Sotero Villalobos and Modesta Villalobos.

Mr. Villalobos was born in Mercedes, Texas, and from a young age, he worked diligently in the fields, dreaming of joining his older brother Tomas in the bustling factories of Chicago. At just 15, he realized this dream, traveling to Chicago each summer. However, he soon discovered that the work wasn't as fulfilling as he had hoped. Determined to find a more meaningful path, Tony completed high school while juggling various jobs and eventually joined the Army National Guard, driven by a deep desire to serve his country.

During his service, Tony pursued a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Pan American College, aiming to become an accountant. After graduating, he was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant and pursued officer school in Austin, TX. There, he stood out as one of only three accepted to become a Captain, all while preparing for a new chapter in his personal life with his beloved Elena.

Tony and Elena first met at Sunrise Hill in Mercedes, TX, a beloved spot for barbecues and community gatherings. Their introduction through a mutual friend quickly blossomed into a loving relationship, and within a year, Tony proposed. They were married on May 26, 1967. Tony's faith was as deep and sincere as his love for Elena. As a devoted Christian, he became a deacon at Emmanuel Baptist Church in McAllen, then the president of the deacons, and church treasurer—all within a year. He also dedicated over two decades to teaching Sunday school, sharing his faith and wisdom with others. Tony went on to establish his professional career at Pan American College and then The University of Texas Pan American where his career path led to Director of Personnel, where he was respectfully known as “Mr. V”, for over 20 years, and retiring with great honor in 2003 after 37 years of service.

At his core, Tony was a man of unparalleled integrity, kindness, and love, from his career to his relationships with family and friends. As a father, his love was patient and kind. As a grandfather, his love was like nothing else. As a husband, his love for Elena was a beautiful example of commitment and partnership. 

Elena stood by his side where she selflessly and faithfully fulfilled the commitments she made before God 57 years ago. Mom, thank you for your tender compassion in caring for Dad until the end and showing us what true love and sacrifice is. Thank you for showing him the path towards his Christian faith and his commitment to God. As with Dad, your treasures in heaven are indeed overflowing.

Today, we say goodbye to a man whose life was a testament to the qualities and values that defined him. His integrity, discipline, and dedication shaped his success as a husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, Captain, loyal friend, and above all servant of God. Loved by many and respected by all, he lived a life guided by faith, hope, and love. Though he will be profoundly missed, we find solace in knowing he now rests in peace in the kingdom of the Lord, our God. His spirit is forever intertwined within the hearts of those he held dear; his legacy lives through us all forever more.

Mr. Villalobos is survived by his wife, Elena Torres Villalobos; 3 children, Yvonne Marie Villalobos, Marco Antonio (Holly Bennett) Villalobos and Homer Orlando (Lily) Villalobos; 2 grandchildren, Ethan Alexander and Ella Avery Villalobos; numerous family and friends.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. Prayer Service, Thursday, August 8, 2024 at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg. Chapel Service will be on Friday, August 9, 2024 at 11a.m. at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg, Interment will follow to Rio Grande Valley Veterans Cemetery in Mission, TX.