It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hector Javier Gaona, who passed away peacefully in Montgomery, Texas on October 14, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 16th, 1937, in Laredo Texas to Raul and Isabel Gaona. Hector was a man of faith, family, kindness and a servant to his country. He was a proud graduate of St. Joseph’s Academy and St. Mary’s University, where he earned a degree in Education. His devotion to teaching and coaching for over 30 years impacted many of his students lives. Along with his love of teaching, he had a passion for ranching with his father and family. He was the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, that everyone in the family counted on for support, help, guidance and good conversation. Hector loved to spend time with his family who he helped rear with a sturdy hand. He relished the time spent traveling with his family, to new and beautiful scenic places.

Hector was preceded in death by his wife Anna Jane Gaona, his parents Raul and Isabel Gaona, his brother Rolando F. Gaona (Antonia+) his sister Julieta (Angel+) Cuellar. He is survived by his sister Graciela (Dr. Santiago+) Gonzalez his brother Dr. Raul E. (Mariscela+) Gaona, his daughters Maria Isabel (Jerry Skip) Woods and Anna Teresa DeVautour, he was blessed with loving grandchildren, Robert “Beau” (Jenny) DeVautour, Alejandra “Alex” (Chris) Thornton, Jacqueline (Kyle) Myers,  Aaron Devautour, Aubrey and Madison Woods. He was also blessed with five great grandchildren, Cheyenne Elizabeth-11, Savannah Lee-11, Cooper Jeffrey-4, Caroline Louis-4, Robert Harrison-2 whom he treasured. Many others mourning his loss include nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

Hector now joins his beloved wife and family, among extended family and friends that preceded him in death, whom he loved with all of his heart.

The Gaona Family will be receiving condolences on Friday, October 20, 2023 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services. There will be a recitation of the holy rosary at 6:00 pm. Funeral services will be Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services. A chapel service celebrating his life will begin at 9:00 am. Interment will follow at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by the Laredo Veterans Honor Guard and flag presentation will be provided by the United States Air Force honor guard.

Funeral arrangements are by Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services, 1320 Trey Dr., Laredo, Texas 78041 (956) 723-3611. For your convenience, you may leave your condolences to the family online at www.freddickey.com