Manuel “DERMER” Garza

Edcouch-Manuel Garza, known to many as “DERMER,” passed away on September 5, 2026, in Edinburg, Texas. He was born on December 20, 1966, in Edcouch, Texas, a community that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Manuel devoted his working life to serving others as a special needs educator in Edcouch-Elsa ISD. He was someone who loved being around children, as well as his nephews and nieces, and that care and warmth were reflected both in his work and in the way he lived. He was happiest in the company of family and friends, sitting together over a good meal, especially steak and Mexican food, sharing time, conversation, and laughter.

He found joy in the simple and spirited things he loved most. Manuel enjoyed attending football games and was a proud fan of the Edcouch-Elsa Yellow Jackets. He was also a hard-core Green Bay Packers fan. He loved to gamble, loved the maquinitas, play darts of which he was an expert at and loved Vegas. These favorite pastimes were part of the lively, memorable presence he brought to those around him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Israel Garza, and his mother, Maria Garza.

Manuel leaves behind a family and circle of loved ones who will carry his memory forward with love. He is survived by his Lifetime friend Lee Roy Guerra, whose bond with Manuel was a treasured part of his life and his godson Leeroy Rodriguez. He is also survived by his sisters, Maria Lorenzi (Luis), Rosalinda De la Torre (Desi), Margarita Vasquez (Albert), Cristina Garza (Hector), Maria Lucio, Beatrice Garza (Javier), Lupita Puente, Dominga Garza and Magalie Ruiz; by his brothers, Daniel Garza (Tammy), Reynaldo Puente and Israel Garza Jr; and by his honorary grandchildren, Lee Roy Guerra, Rosalie Guerra, Alice Guerra, Derek Garza, Daniela Medina and Delylah Medina; nephew, Derek Garza; nieces, Daniela Medina and Delylah Medina along with numerous other nieces and nephews.

With gratitude, the family extends special thanks to those who cared for, loved, and guided Manuel throughout his life, especially in the past few months. They offer heartfelt appreciation to the Dr. Ponce at U.S. Reno in Elsa; Margarita Arellano, LeeRoy Rodriguez, Margie Vazquez, Cristina Garza and Beatrice Garza, Dr. Salvador Arellano, Elsa Medical Clinic, Dr. Pamela Lopez and Staff, Fa. Patrick Seitz from St. Theresa Parish for the prayers and the hospital visits, the Guerra family, Leeroy’s Burgers and staff and the Edcouch Police Department for their kindness and support.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Manuel's life on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a Recitation of the Holy Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Serenity Funeral Chapel in Edcouch. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Theresa of the Infant Jesus Catholic Church in Edcouch, TX held by Fa. Patrick Seitz. Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco, TX.

Having the distinguished honor of serving as pallbearers are: Derek Garza, Xavier Becerra, Leeroy Marez, Israel Garza, Jr., Sammy Garcia, Joe Garcia; Honorary pallbearer, LeeRoy Guerra.

Manuel Garza will be remembered for his generous spirit, his love of family and friendship, and the joy he found in the people and pastimes he cherished most. His presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Funeral arrangements are under the compassionate care and direction of Dr. Joseph Conde and the staff of Serenity Funeral Chapels, located at 1401 E. Santa Rosa Ave., Edcouch, Texas 78538.