Arnold Charles Riojas

Arnold Charles Riojas, affectionately known as Charlie, was born on December 1, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on September 25, 2025, in San Angelo, Texas, at the age of 59.

Charlie was the beloved son of Arnold Castro Riojas and Carol Ann Aguirre. He grew up in San Antonio alongside his sisters, Nancy Gonzales, Lauren Lopez, and Chantal Riojas, sharing countless memories, laughter, and the kind of bond only siblings can know. He was also especially close to his cousin, Chris Riojas, whom he considered more like a brother. The memories they created together will be cherished forever.

A proud graduate of Tom Clark High School, Charlie made friendships that lasted a lifetime. He was known as the life of every gathering, a quality that carried through his years and endeared him to so many.

Charlie began working with his father in the family business, Martha’s Mexican Restaurant, where he discovered his love for food, cooking, and the restaurant industry. That passion stayed with him throughout his life, along with the joy of serving others.

Above all, family was the center of Charlie’s world. He was a devoted father to his children, Hallie Davlin, Marlie Riojas, Gavin Riojas, and the late Ryan Riojas, whose memory he carried in his heart each day. One of his greatest joys was being “Charlie Grandpa” to his grandchildren, Hudson and Lily Davlin, who filled his life with pride and endless happiness. Charlie also shared a deep and loving partnership with his fiancée, Sandra Barrera, with whom he built a life filled with love and companionship.

Charlie was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his son Ryan Riojas, and his beloved aunt and uncle, Evangeline and Armando Riojas.

Known for his big heart, sense of humor, and generosity, Charlie had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued. Whether through his warm smile, a quick joke, or his willingness to help anyone in need, he touched lives everywhere he went. To know Charlie was to know a man who lived authentically, cherished time with family and friends, and found joy in life’s simplest moments.

He will be remembered for his stories, his laughter, and his unwavering love for those closest to him. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

Charlie’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and family—a light that will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.

Services will be held Saturday November 1st at St. Matthews Catholic Church in San Antonio Texas. A reception/gathering will follow with that location TBD.

Our family looks forward to seeing everyone and celebrating Dads amazing life.

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