Emilio C. Cantu

Emilio Cesar Cantu, 81, of Penitas, Texas, born on August 22 1944, in Weslaco, Texas. He was a dedicated Mariachi Director for La Joya ISD (1981- 2019), served in the church choir singing and playing guitar for many years at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Weslaco and at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in La Joya. Emilio was an active member of The Knights of Columbus (Fourth Degree Knight), and known for his positivity and perseverance. Emilio Cesar Cantu, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026. He was a man of great integrity, known for his infectious laughter, love of music, and unwavering support for his family. Whether he was spending time with loved ones, or sharing stories with friends, he lived life to the fullest. Emilio was predeceased by his father, Emilio Severo Cantu, his mother, Mary Frances Turner, and his sister, Virginia D. Cantu He is survived by his beloved family, his wife Estella Cantu (de la Garza), children Yvette M. Villarreal (Cantu), Michelle K. Cantu, Ariana C. Cantu, grandchildren Gabriel R. Gauna Jr. (Jordan J. Perez), Ryan A. Gauna (Jasmine Garcia), Krystal C. Villarreal, Leah N. Thatcher, great-grand children Mercury O. Gauna, Rayne M. Gauna, Malikai J. Garcia, Sapphire J. Gauna, Ryder J. Gauna; brother Joe Turner-Cantu (Eddie Upton), step-sisters Lucy Rodriguez (Amador Rodriguez ✝️), and Thelma Benitez. Visitation and Rosary to be held at Brown Family Funeral Home in Mission. Funeral Mass to be held at Our Lady Guadalupe in Mission.
Burial will be at Lord & I Cemetery in Palmview.

Click this link to view additional details about Emilio's Services: https://my.gather.app/remember/emilio-cantu

Click this link to view additional details about Emilio's Services: https://my.gather.app/remember/emilio-cantu