Simon S. Villarreal

Born on February 18, 1938, in Pearsall, Texas, Simon Sanchez Villarreal passed away peacefully in his hometown on August 15, 2026, at the age of 88.

Simon was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of deep faith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Sara (Sanchez) Villarreal, Sr.; his siblings, Lilia Villarreal Garza, Jose S. Villarreal Jr., Jesus S. Villarreal, Benancio S. Villarreal, Juan S. Villarreal, Pedro S. Villarreal, and Guadalupe S. Villarreal; and his twin brothers.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage; his son, Juan Gilbert Villarreal; his daughter, Diamantina V. Pedroza, and her husband, Gregorio E. Pedroza III; his granddaughters, Diamond Marie V. Pedroza and Emerald Anne V. Pedroza; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Earlier in life, Simon worked as a laborer in the fields. Later, he dedicated 49 years to Cannon Water Company. He was also skilled in carpentry and construction, working for Luis Treviño and Artemio Treviño. Simon took great pride in his work and in being able to provide for his family.

His Catholic faith was at the heart of everything he did. Simon received an honorary lifetime membership in the Knights of Columbus Council 8327 and was a member of Immaculado Corazon de Maria. As a Eucharistic Minister, he brought Holy Communion to nursing homes, hospitals, and homes throughout the community. He participated as a guide for Las Posadas and helped with several CCD retreats. He was also a member of the Parish Council, directed the first bingo held in the old church parish hall, coordinated festivals for Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, and participated in the Virgen de Guadalupe Mass celebrations. Simon and Maria were awarded the Archbishop Francis J. Furey Medal in recognition of exceptional service to the Catholic Church (Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Pearsall) and their community.

To those who knew him, Simon's faith was not simply something he practiced at church, it was a way of life. He could often be found wearing his rosary, a quiet reminder of the faith that guided him throughout his life. One of his greatest joys was praying the rosary with Maria every night before they went to bed, along with cheering for the Dallas Cowboys and of course, dancing. Their life together was built on love, devotion, family, and faith.

Above all else, Simon loved his family and was immensely proud of them. Simon found great happiness in being surrounded by his children and granddaughters. He cherished the time spent with those he loved and carried his faith with him in all that he did.

Simon leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, hard work, and devotion to his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his memory will live on through his family, the faith he shared, and the love he gave so freely throughout his life. May he rest in the loving arms of God, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.

The Villarreal family would like to extend their heartfelt and sincere gratitude to the administration and staff of Frio Regional Hospital, including all of the nurses and medical staff, and especially Dr. Oscar Garza, for the exceptional care and compassion they provided to Simon during the final months of his life. Their kindness and dedication brought comfort to Simon and to his family during a very difficult time, and the family will always be deeply grateful for the care they gave him. We also would like to express our sincere appreciation to Maggie Piña and Grace Perez for the care and support they provided during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a tribute gift to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, P. O. Box AK, Pearsall, TX 78061 in his memory.

Services

Family and friends are invited to commemorate Simon S. Villarreal’s life at the following services, all held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 422 W Brazos St, Pearsall, TX 78061.

Visitation: Friday, August 28, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with the Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass: Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Following Mass, burial will take place at Frio County Cemetery, Co Rd 4002, Pearsall, TX 78061.