Leonel L. Longoria

Leonel Leopoldo Longoria passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on June 16, 1949, Leonel grew up in San Benito, Texas, in a family of ten. Despite the challenges of being a migrant worker as a child, his intelligence and determination always stood out—he was often known as the smartest student in the class. He graduated proudly with the San Benito High School Class of 1969.

Shortly after graduation, Leonel answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. At the age of 28, he began what would become a long and meaningful career at L&F Distributors. Over the years, he formed countless lasting relationships with coworkers, store managers, local politicians, and others throughout the community.

Born to Leoncio and Estefana G. Longoria, Leonel lived a life defined by hard work and unwavering love for his family. He now reunites in eternal rest with his siblings Consuelo Sanchez, Lalo Longoria, Jesus Longoria, and Benjamin Longoria.

Leonel met the love of his life, Norma, through their shared love of softball. They found each other in 1980 and four years later welcomed their first daughter, followed by two more in 1989 and 1992, forming the family he cherished more than anything.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Norma A. Longoria, with whom he shared over four decades of love and partnership. Leonel was a proud father to his three daughters: Tanya Longoria (Jose Luis Rodriguez), Patricia Garza (Eduardo Garza), and Elisa Longoria (Trung Nguyen). His legacy lives on through his beloved grandchildren, Lucas Garza and Lily Garza.

Leonel is also survived by his siblings Delia Morado, Juan Longoria, Joe Longoria, Balde Longoria, and Robert Longoria, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

A lifelong lover of sports, Leonel especially enjoyed cheering on the San Benito Greyhounds—rarely missing a game, whether in person or on TV. His greatest loyalty, however, was to the Houston Astros, and even in his final days, he remained a faithful fan.

He also had a playful spirit and loved trying his luck with the Texas Lottery. Known for choosing the high-priced scratchers, Leonel had more than a few winning moments—he always believed his next big win was just a ticket away.

The Longoria family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 7 o'clock on Sunday evening. Funeral Liturgy and final goodbyes will take place in the funeral home chapel on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Vietnam Veterans Chapter Honor Guard of Brownsville, Texas.

Leonel will be remembered for his kind spirit, strong values, quiet strength, and the deep love he gave so freely to everyone in his life. Though he may be gone, his memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23