James A. Saner

James Alfred “Jim” Saner, (aka. J.A., Mr. Saner) 92, of Red Oak and South Padre Island, Texas died peacefully at his home on January 15, 2023. Born September 6, 1930, in Harlingen, Texas, he was the son of James Monroe and Sarah (Garza) Saner.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, and proud Papa. He is survived by his four loving children, Gregg Saner, Michelle (Ronnie) Weisfeld, Lisa (Ray) Parrish and Cindy (Mark O’Shea) Saner; his adoring grandchildren, J.R. Saner (Becky), C.J. Saner (Amanda), Jacob and Emily Weisfeld, Allison, Jared (Annika), Madison Parrish, Olivia, Gavin and Grant McCann, Hayden and Graham O’Shea, and five great grandchildren, Emrie, Lily, Stella, Chloe and Kaylee Saner. And by his devoted granddog, SPIKE, who would accompany him to appointments and always keep a close eye on his Papa!

Jim was preceded in death by loving wife, Doris; his parents; and “Sis” Sarah Lee Bard.

While being raised on his family ranch in Las Yescas and Rio Hondo, he learned the Spanish and English languages with numerous relatives and cousins that were more like siblings. He cherished his family upbringing and the solid values instilled by his hard-working parents. From growing up on a ranch, he learned to appreciate nature, fishing, hunting, animals, plants and all things weather related. Jim’s family is also deeply rooted in the central Texas Hill Country, mainly Boerne TX, dating back to the early 1800s. He enjoyed searching and learning about his heritage. His strong Catholic faith was a cornerstone to his life and gave him much solace. Jim graduated from Rio Hondo High School in 1948 and kept in touch with so many of his friends and classmates throughout the years.

After high school, Jim attended Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Texas. His patriotism led him to join the U.S. Air Force where he enjoyed traveling across the U.S. He took joy in sharing stories of riding his Harley from South Texas to Virginia. Once he settled down, he met the love of his life at Commercial Credit Corporation in McAllen, Doris Jeannette Gawlik. They both were partial to raising their family in Mission (Sharyland), Texas. Both were blessed with the gift of gab and an inclusive nature, which enabled them to establish lifelong relationships and enjoy traveling to see family and friends whenever possible. They instilled this quality in their children and grandchildren.

Jim had so many friends, new and old, that would stop by his condo to sit and chat. He would school them on everything Rio Grande Valley and of course the weather! In recent years, he had the opportunity to travel to Cabo San Lucas and fell in love with that part of the world. He immediately felt at home with the Mexican culture.

Jim was known for his fierce love and support of his family, his no-nonsense approach to just about everything, his quick wit, his jovial humor, his love of crossword puzzles, and savoring a nice cold Lone Star while enjoying a lively Mariachi band.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Ruben Tenorio for being more than a doctor but a true friend. Julie and Don Cathey entered Jim’s life closer to the end and became amazing caretakers. Their care and friendship meant the world to him and the entire family.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Rio Hondo. Following the Mass, military honors will be rendered by the Honor Guard of the American Vietnam Veterans of Brownsville, Texas.

Interment of ashes will take place the following day, Friday, January 27, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission, Texas.

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