Charlie Garza III

Charlie was a devoted husband, doting father, and loyal friend, and although he is gone, his legacy of love, humor and dedication will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Charlie was a man of many talents and interests, none of which he took lightly. Raised on a farm in Inez, Texas, he proudly embraced his country roots. He had a knack for raising goats, rabbits, and various livestock, and never once complained about the hard work that came with it - unless, of course, it was the goats' fault. Possessing a phenomenal "green thumb", Charlie could plant anything from a brown stick to a cutting from a plant and create a lovely addition to his bountiful beautiful yard. A true Texan, Charlie was just as comfortable in his boots as he was in the kitchen, where he earned the title of "brilliant cook." Many will fondly remember the delicious meals he prepared, particularly when he played host to family and friends for special occasions and holidays. No one ever left his table hungry, and everyone left with a smile and a plate.

Charlie's sense of humor was unique, he could deliver jokes and make playful jabs but underneath that tough exterior was a heart of gold. He was a man who could make you laugh even when life was tough, and his infectious laughter made you feel like everything would turn out just fine.

Despite being strict at times, he was fiercely loving, affectionate and dutiful to his family - especially to his "Gorda", his beloved daughter, Maricruz. From the moment she was born, she was his pride and joy, his "greatest accomplishment". Charlie was her accomplice, co-conspirator, confidant, and above all, the best "Papi" a daughter could ask for. Two peas in a pod, they shared countless adventures, laughs, and moments that only a father and daughter could enjoy together.

Charlie's love story began at a dance, where he met the love of his life, Sara. Their shared passion for dancing kept them together for almost 51 years, moving in sync not only on the dance floor but through life's many challenges and blessings. In their twilight years, they continued to hold true to their marriage vow of through sickness and in health, as they comforted each other with the challenges of their declining health.. They were the perfect partners in crime, making each other laugh, supporting one another, and, most importantly never forgetting they were truly soul mates.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Charlie served his country valiantly in the Vietnam conflict, fighting with courage and valor. Just as he fought for his country, he fought tirelessly against his illness, never letting it define him. Until the very end, he faced every challenge head-on, just as he had faced everything else in life - with determination and bravery.

Charlie was a magnet for babies and children, who all seemed to be drawn to him, eager for his loving arms and attention. There wasn't a baby, a plant, or a challenge that he did not try to nurture and care for to the best of his ability. His warmth, honesty, loyalty, and generosity made him a true friend, and his legacy is one of kindness, love, and dedication. In the end, though, he was just "Papi" - and that is how we will remember him: as the man who made us laugh, who loved us unconditionally, and who fought hard, worked hard, and always made sure we knew we were loved.

Charlie is survived by his wife Sara Flores Garza, his daughter Maricruz Garza Macias, son-in-law Carlos Macias, Jr., sister Mary Ida Garza Talamantes, and a host of family and friends who were fortunate enough to have been touched by his humor, warmth and love.

A celebration of Charlie's life will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Hunters Creek Chapel at Earthman Funeral Directors, 8303 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77024. Following the funeral service will be a committal service at 1:15 p.m. at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77038. A reception will follow immediately after the committal service at Jacinto City Town Center Community Building Heritage Hall Senior Citizens, 1025 Oates Road, Houston, Texas 77029.

Rest in peace, "Papi". You may have left this world, but your love, laughter, joy and legacy will live on forever in our hearts. And we are sure you are still dancing up there - just like you always did.