Porfirio Garza

Porfirio Garza, affectionally known as “Pilo”, age 87, of San Angelo, Texas passed peacefully on Saturday, September 21, 2025.  “Pilo” is reunited with his loved ones in the eternal home; his sons, Eduardo “Eddie” Garza, Manuel Adrian Ortega and his siblings, Segundo Espinoza, Juan Espinoza, Rubin Espinoza, Dionicia Palma, Crisanta Bustamente.

He was born May 5, 1938, in Asherton “Cheto” Texas. Pilo was born into a family where his oldest brother, “Segundo” had to become the father figure in his life and modeled for him how to become a hardworking man at a young age and because of his brother's influence “Pilo” was able to graduate from high school and attend college.  Later he joined the Migrant Council and was involved in the Chicano/Migrant movement in South Texas.   As an adult, he became the Director of the Migrant Council and joined the L.U.L.A.C. organization.  As a result of his community involvement, he was elected mayor of his hometown, Asherton “Cheto” Texas.  During his tenure, he accomplished erecting street signs, traffic signals and paving streets all to enrich his community.

Pilo was a man of many passions; he was lifelong artist and found immense joy in painting, his art was inspired by his view of nature and her vibrant colors.  “Pilo” brought beauty and creativity and inspiration to anyone admiring his work.  His artistic legacy lives on in his creations and in the lives he touched. “Pilo” also possessed a green thumb; his bed of roses and hibiscus plants were an envy in the neighborhood.  His love for “Chente” song was a constant presence in our home and his voice could bring comfort to those who are lucky to hear it.  

“Pilo” was a dedicated and loving father, he was a strong, kind, loving, and supportive father. His knowledge and guidance were the foundation of his family. A true role model who we will always look up to, his kindness, generosity and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

 Left to cherish “Pilo’s” memory are his children, Cathy & Daniel Higle, Xochitl & Raul Leal, Shaun Paul Garza, Christopher Garza, Juan “Pilin” & Rosie Garza, Santos Soto, Montserrat Soto, Fred & Honda Rocha, Felicita Rocha, and Ruben Ortega.  He will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

All who knew “Pilo” knew him to be a loving father, grandpa, brother and uncle who cherished his family.

Though we mourn our loss, your legacy will forever live on through the countless lives you touched and the lessons you modeled for us.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the dedicated staff at Avir Skilled Nursing Facility and Interim Hospice for their exceptional kindness, compassion and loving care for “Pilo” during his final months.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Porfirio Garza, please visit our floral store.