Michael Anthony Vargas

Fighting the good fight with a captivating wit that filled every room with laughter and an intellect that inspired those lucky enough to have known him, Michael left a mark on all the lives he touched.

Michael entered this world on October 1, 1986, in Harlingen, Tx. He was the third child of Jose Vargas and Adelaida Vargas, known affectionately as "Laly." His educational journey began in the San Benito public schools, ultimately leading him to fulfill one of his lifelong aspirations: serving as a public servant and elected official on the San Benito CISD Board of Trustees.

In his formative years, Michael's life was filled with cherished moments that brought joy to his family. He shared countless Sundays watching the Dallas Cowboys alongside his mom, dad, and brothers, creating lasting memories. Michael also found happiness in spending quality time with his brothers at their childhood home in the El Jardin neighborhood of San Benito. Together, they bonded over barbecues that filled their home with laughter and warmth. He also always made it a point to take his beloved mother on special outings, creating cherished memories together that would forever warm their hearts.

Michael was more than just a friend; he was the epitome of what it meant to be an exceptional human being. His infectious laugh and zest for life were the very essence of his character. He had an unparalleled ability to light up any room he entered, and his presence was a guarantee of a good time. It was as if he had a never-ending reservoir of happiness to share with everyone around him.

Michael had a gift for making people feel special and loved. One of his most remarkable qualities was his ability to make even the mundane moments in life feel like grand adventures. He was the life of the party and loved to dance like no one was watching. Michael was the one who could turn an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable celebration. His smile was contagious, and his enthusiasm was infectious. He taught his countless friends the true meaning of living in the moment and cherishing every precious second of life. While his physical presence may no longer be with us, his spirit will forever remain alive in our memories and in the countless lives he touched.

Michael maintained enduring friendships with those he met during his childhood, and his capacity for unconditional acceptance enabled him to attract new friends across the country.

Growing up, Michael's talents knew no bounds; he delighted his parents with his musical performances and left them in awe with his remarkable public speaking abilities. His academic achievements were a source of immense pride, consistently earning glowing compliments from his elementary, middle school, and high school teachers. His journey through life was marked by a profound commitment to excellence in all he pursued.

Michael embarked on his remarkable journey towards success when he proudly graduated from San Benito High School in 2005, where he distinguished himself as the Salutatorian of his graduating class and was voted “Most Likely to Succeed” by his peers. His academic excellence paved the way for him to receive a full scholarship to the prestigious Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. It was at Brown that his passion for public service and the intricate workings of the legislative process flourished, unveiling his true calling. Michael pursued his dreams with unwavering determination, earning a bachelor's degree in political science, and he continued his educational journey at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where he earned a master's degree in educational leadership.

On numerous occasions, Michael had the honor of being selected to participate in esteemed programs offered by nationally recognized organizations. His commitment to community representation and public service shone brightly during his tenure as a Congressional intern under the mentorship of former Congressman Solomon Ortiz of South Texas. In addition, he furthered his experience by interning with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute in Washington, DC.

Michael's federal career reached its culmination as he assumed the role of Congressional Affairs Assistant for the Presidential Classroom Program. In this capacity, he not only played a pivotal role in organizing and facilitating student visits to federal agencies and Capitol Hill but also shared his wealth of knowledge about domestic and foreign policy with the students as well as with family and friends who visited.

Simultaneously, while pursuing his master's degree, Michael continued his commitment to public service by interning for the esteemed Texas State Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Brownsville, Texas.

Michael went on to be selected by Teach for America, becoming an educational ambassador committed to uplifting impoverished communities, including in St. Louis, Missouri, where he taught at the Hazelwood School District. This transformative experience fueled his dedication to improving K-12 education and strengthening his own community. In St. Louis, he came to the realization that it was the moment to come back to his roots and effect positive change in his hometown.

Returning to San Benito, Michael embarked on a distinguished career in public service, serving as an elected trustee on the San Benito CISD School Board. He became its youngest-ever board president at the age of 31. As President, he implemented groundbreaking policies, including the creation of the San Benito CISD Dr. Raul Garza, Jr. STEAM Academy and the SBCISD Early College Academy, all while advocating for an increase in teachers' salaries.

Beyond his local impact, Michael's commitment extended to the national and state levels. He played key roles in various campaigns, including the Sylvester Turner Mayoral Campaign and Leadership for Educational Equity's Candidate Ready Development Team. He was a dedicated member of the Texas Association of School Boards' Legislative Committee, working towards positive changes in state education policies. Additionally, he served as the Executive Secretary of the Mexican American School Boards Association and co-founded School Board Leaders for Safe Schools.

Passionate about public affairs, Michael became the Assistant Director of Public Affairs with the City of Pharr, where he ardently advocated for various causes up until the day he passed. His work resulted in securing substantial funding for pivotal projects, advancing the city's interests in areas such as infrastructure, trade, education, and more. Against considerable odds, he successfully secured millions of dollars in funding for the City, catalyzing transformative projects. His dedication significantly propelled key initiatives, such as the expansion of the Pharr International Bridge, the inception of the TeamPharr.net Community Broadband Project aimed at bridging the digital divide, and his instrumental contributions to the Malcolm Baldrige Presidential Award writing team, among many other accomplishments. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Michael's inspiring leadership and genuine camaraderie endeared him to his colleagues, leaving an enduring impact.

Yet all his accomplishments do not come close to the magnitude of love he had for his mother, Laly, and his extended family, which encompassed his brothers, nieces, nephews, and closest friends. He was proud of all his nephews and nieces and the educational journeys many of them were embarking on. When he loved, he loved hard and with his whole heart. His passion, humor, sense of style, complete with bow ties and whimsical socks, and his commitment to his friends, family, and community will always be remembered.

He often quoted W.E.B. Du Bois, stating, "There is in this world no such force as the force of a person determined to rise. The human soul cannot be permanently chained."

As we say goodbye to our dear son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend, let us remember the lessons he taught us: to embrace life with open arms, to find joy in the simple things, and to never underestimate the power of laughter. Michael may be gone from this physical world, but his light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Michael is survived by his partner, Mario Cortez; Mother Adelaida Vargas; Brothers, Joe Vargas Jr, Gilbert Vargas (Andrea); Nephews, Joey (Julz), Jacob, Richie (Shantel), Orly; Nieces, Arlene, Alyssa, Sadie, Andie, Angelina; Great Nephews, Luke , Anthony, Elijah, Zachariah, and Levi; Great Niece, Summer.

He is preceded in death by his father Jose Manuel Vargas; Grandparents, Miguel and Juanita Montez, Manuel and San Juana Vargas.

The Vargas family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta & Memorial Park with a rosary to be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.

A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at 1 p.m. it’s St. Theresa Catholic Church in San Benito. Following the service, Michael will be laid to rest at Mont Meta Memorial Park.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta & Memorial Park, 26170 State Highway 345, San Benito, Texas 78586.