Deacon Jessie C. Garza

Jessie Chavez Garza, 93, of Waco passed away Thursday March 6, 2025, of natural causes. The family will receive visitors Wednesday, March 12, at 5pm at St Francis Catholic Church, 315 Jefferson, followed by a Rosary to begin at 7pm. A Holy Mass will be celebrated Thursday, March 13, at 10:00am at the Church with Rev. J Eduardo Jazo as celebrant followed by burial at Oakwood Cemetery.

Jessie was born July 28, 1931, in Waco, Texas to Antonia Chavez and Alberto Garza. He was married to the love of his life Cecelia Vasquez Garza on March 5, 1955, until her passing in December of 2020. They were married for 65 years.

Jessie was also preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Tony Garza; and his sister, Catherine Ramirez.

He is survived by his two daughters, Yvonne Salazar and Veronica Garza Martinez; 5 grandchildren, Steven Sisneros and fiancée Marlynn Flores, Cookie Sisneros Brown and husband Bobby Brown, Jeff Salazar and fiancée Brittany Harty, Jennifer Salazar and partner Chris Varnon and James Salazar; 4 great grandchildren, De'Angelo, Cecilia, Randy and Labella; 1 great great grandchild Aziel and a beloved cousin who was like a sister to him, Mary Garcia.

Jessie lost his mother at a young age and was sent to live with his uncle Charlie, who raised him to have work ethic, manners and respect. As a young adult, Jessie went on to serve in the Army and was Honorably discharged, joining the Army National Guard Reserves shortly after accumulating 34 years of service. He was very proud of having served his country and was truly patriotic. He could often be seen wearing his Veteran's hat apparel.

In 1970, Jessie began working for the United States Postal Service, first as a mail sorter and later becoming a letter carrier. He really enjoyed meeting people on his route and worked 40 years for the Postal Service before retiring.

On July 16, 1988 Jessie was ordained as a Deacon by the Diocese of Austin, a role Fr Jose Antonio Martorell encouraged him to take. He then returned to St. Francis Catholic Church and began his service. This role saw Jessie serve not only those in the Church but the community of Waco. He often took Communion to those who were ill in the hospital or in nursing homes providing compassion, encouragement, and prayer. He also performed numerous Church services, baptisms, rosaries, and graveside services during his Deaconship and was a member of the Cursillistos and the Knights of Columbus. Although retired, Jessie continued to perform his duties up to his passing.

When Jessie was not busy with his duties he could be found enjoying life. He loved spending time with his family, working in his yard, travelling and dancing with his wife Cecelia. Her loss profoundly affected him and as a family we take solace in knowing they are now reunited. Jessie was a strong man of faith who left an impression on all those he met and will truly be missed by all who knew him.