Ysmael Garcia

Ysmael Garcia, 85, of San Benito, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 23, 2021, after a lengthy illness.  “Red”, as he was known by family and friends, was preceded in death by his parents Rodolfo and Isabel Garcia, as well as his brothers Guadalupe Garcia, Reynaldo Garcia, Roberto Garcia, and Rodolfo Garcia Jr., his son Ismael “Smiley” Garcia Jr., and his loving granddaughter Cynthia Marie Moody.

Mr. Garcia is survived by his wife of 67 years, Irma Canales Garcia; his sister, Librada “Nena” Lucio (Omar); his daughter, Blanca Vela (David); his nephew, Raymond Canales (Jennifer); his grandchildren, Michael Moody Garcia (Jeannie), Smiley Garcia (Cara), Blair Pambianchi (Mitch), and Kimberly Vela, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and great grandchildren.

Red was self-employed in the trucking business for more than 50 years, having worked in the Rio Grande Valley, Arkansas and Alabama.  He proudly worked alongside his son for 25 years.

Red was always willing to lend a helping hand, especially for fellow truckers.  He was loved and well respected by his family, community and his professional colleagues, who all appreciated his big heart, inspiring work ethic, and empathetic spirit.  Red enjoyed western movies, especially John Wayne films.  He loved to sing, often accompanying mariachi groups.  “What a grito” was often heard at parties held at the Garcia home.  He enjoyed watching a good football game and spending quality time with his children and grandchildren. Red had a strong love of family.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Red’s family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, December 27, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 6:30 p.m. (Click the link below to view a live-stream of the Rosary service.) Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Benedict Catholic Church.  Following the Mass, Red will be laid to rest at Mont Meta Memorial Park.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are David Vela, Michael Moody Garcia, Smiley Garcia, Raymond Canales, Omar Lucio Jr., and Raul Garza.  Honorary pallbearers are Mich Pambianchi, Rene Perez and Rudy Garcia.

The family would like to thank all the amazing caregivers that helped make “Big Red” feel as healthy and comfortable as possible over the past few years.  Kindred Hospice was exceptional and Brian Smith, Red’s nurse, was a blessing.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home, 1400 W. Business 77, San Benito, Texas 78586. www.sanbenitofuneralhome.com 956.291.4350