Rafael Velasquez was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and cherished friend to many. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, in Midland, Texas, on July 9, 2026.

Rafael was born in Barrancos de Guadalupe, Municipio de Ojinaga, Chihuahua, Mexico. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carmen Velasquez; his father, Julian Garcia; his sister, Selsa Moreno Garcia; his brother, Tomas Garcia; his sister, Anita Acosta Velasquez; and his half-siblings, Jose Garcia, Jesus Garcia, Ramona Garcia, Eva Rivera Garcia, Espiridion Garcia, Pedro Garcia, Amparo Garcia, and Manuela Garcia.

Rafael is survived by his devoted wife of more than 63 years, Evangelina Velasquez. Brother Pedro Velasquez. He also leaves behind his loving children: Elsa Reed and her husband, Kent Reed; Gil Velasquez; and Abel Velasquez and his wife, Erika Velasquez. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Mabel Alyn Velasquez (Jonathan Garcia), Abel Velasquez (Natalie Camacho), Jerykah Aaliyah Velasquez, and Rafael Axiel Velasquez. He was also blessed with his precious great-granddaughter, Belani Jade Garcia, who brought him great joy.

Rafael married the love of his life, Evangelina, on March 9, 1963, in Las Conchas, Municipio de Ojinaga, Chihuahua, Mexico. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. As a devoted husband, hardworking provider, and caring father, he dedicated himself to giving his family a life filled with love, support, and stability. His unwavering commitment to his family will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

Rafael was known for his kind heart, gentle spirit, strong work ethic, and selfless nature. He always put his family first and took great pride in caring for those he loved. He treasured every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, family, and friends. One of his favorite daily traditions was meeting his friends for coffee at El Rodeo each morning, where his warm smile and friendly conversations made everyone feel welcome. Another one of his greatest joys was watching his grandson play baseball while he was growing up. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer him on, and those memories became some of the moments he treasured most.

Above all, Rafael will be remembered for his deep faith in God, his generosity, his humility, and the unconditional love he shared with everyone around him. His life was a beautiful example of strength, compassion, and devotion. Although he will be deeply missed, his love, values, and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A public viewing will take place on Tuesday July 14th at The Pecos Funeral Home in Pecos, Texas from 1:00pm- 9:00pm with a ceremony at 5:00pm. Following day, Wednesday July 15th, will be the burial starting at 10:00am at the Greenwood Cemetery.