Anthony Joseph Sarmiento, age 35, was born in Houston, Texas, and moved to Laredo at just three months old, where he was raised and lived the rest of his life. He graduated from United High School in 2008—the same year he met the love of his life, Samantha Garcia. Together they shared seventeen years filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Despite the adventures, friendships, and challenges he experienced, Samantha was always his heart and his home.
Anthony had a spirit that was unmistakably his own. He enjoyed fishing, dirt bike trailing, hunting, riding his motorcycle, and revving his Corvette—a car so well known by the Laredo Police Department for his “heavy foot” in the streets that it became part of local legend—as well as helping anyone in need. Though he carried a hard exterior, he had a remarkably soft and generous heart, and everyone who knew him felt the depth of his kindness. He surrounded himself with people who, like him, had big hearts and genuine love for others. His personality was bold, unique, and full of passion—a man who felt deeply and loved fiercely.
Being born in Houston, Anthony was a lifelong Astros fan. He lovingly gave himself the nickname “Swisha,” and many knew him by his childhood name “Beaver,” inspired by his front teeth. These names reflected the playful, spirited nature that those close to him cherished so much.
Anthony was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Jose L. and Petra F. Cegueda, and his paternal grandfather, Antonio Sarmiento Sr. He had recently lost his beloved 101-year-old maternal grandmother, Petra F. Cegueda, with whom he shared a bond like no other; now, he is joyfully reunited with his “Wela.” He did not have children of his own, but he adored his niece and nephews—Gabriel, Jesiah, and Francesca—and loved them with all the devotion of a father. He is survived by his loving mother Irene Cegueda Sarmiento; his father Antonio Sarmiento Jr.; his sisters Christina, Erica, and Amanda Sarmiento; and his longtime partner Samantha Garcia, along with many relatives and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Since his abrupt and heartbreaking passing, many have reached out asking how they could help. In response, his family created a GoFundMe to raise funds to buy toys, clothes, and shoes for the children of the Sacred Heart Children’s Home. Through the generosity of loved ones and community members, $1,000 was raised. These donations will be made in Anthony’s name, and items will be purchased and delivered in time for Christmas. The family will also be accepting additional physical donations during visitation hours, to be taken directly to Sacred Heart Children’s Home.
The Sarmiento family will be receiving guests on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A rosary will be recited at 7:00 pm. Funeral Services will be Monday, December 15, 2025, from the funeral home to San Luis Rey Catholic Church. Funeral mass will begin at 10:00 am. Cremation services will be held at a later date.
Because Anthony will be cremated, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, friends and loved ones consider giving to those in need and sharing love during this holiday season—an act that truly reflects who Anthony was. Cremation and burial of his ashes will be scheduled at a later date.
During this difficult time, the family kindly asks that everyone honor Anthony’s memory by being respectful and considerate of one another as we gather to grieve, remember, and celebrate his life.