Noris Garcia, Jr.

It is with deep sorrow and great love that we announce the passing of Noris Garcia Jr., who passed peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family and devoted wife on May 23, 2026, at the age of 89 in Uvalde.

Born in Brackettville, Noris built a life filled with purpose, faith, love, and accomplishment through hard work and determination. He made his home in San Antonio, where he became known for his dedication to family, education, and community. A proud veteran, he honorably served nine years in the United States Air Force before dedicating his life to education.

Noris earned his undergraduate degree from St. Mary’s University and later received his Master’s degree in Education and Superintendent certification from The University of Texas at Austin. He devoted a combined total of 32 years to education, including 30 years with SAISD and two years with UCISD, serving with distinction as both a principal and superintendent. He was beloved by students, teachers, and staff whose lives he touched through his guidance and mentorship. He also officiated football games and was a proud member of the Southwest Football Officials Association (SFOA) for 30 years, sharing his love of sports with generations of athletes.

A devoted Catholic, Noris lived his faith daily through kindness, humility, and compassion. He loved Texas sports and was an avid Texas Longhorns football fan, devoted San Antonio Spurs supporter, and diehard Dallas Cowboys fan. He enjoyed traveling, trips to Las Vegas, and making memories with those he loved most.Noris was exceptionally well-read, endlessly optimistic, and known for his wisdom, humor, and comforting presence. He never met a stranger and was beloved for his infectious laugh, warm smile, and steady encouragement. Known lovingly as “Papa” by his family, he created traditions that will live on for generations, including summer RV trips, Christmas pizza, cruises, and his cherished role as the voice of Santa Claus each Christmas season.

Above all, Noris loved his wife, Evelyn, of 70 years more than all the salt in the sea. He was a true example of what a husband, father, and man should be.He is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn Mendeke Garcia; his son, Jon Eric Garcia; daughter-in-law, Cindy Garcia; Jenniffer Lilly and Marc Lilly; five cherished grandchildren; nine treasured great-grandchildren; two sisters; and one brother. He was preceded in death by his son, Van Cedric Garcia.

Noris leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, wisdom, and unconditional love that will not soon be forgotten.

Memorial services will be held on June 27, 2026, at Rushing-Estes-Knowles Mortuary, 220 S. Getty, Uvalde, Texas 78801. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., with services immediately following from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m