Jose Abel Cantu Sr.

Jose Abel Cantu, Sr., 74, entered into eternal rest on December 8, 2025, in Harlingen, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted public servant, Jose retired from the City of Harlingen after more than 20 years of dedicated service to his community. He was a man of deep faith, known for his strength, unwavering work ethic, and the genuine warmth he shared with everyone he met. Always smiling, Jose found joy in traveling with his family, spending meaningful time with his loved ones, and caring for his precious dog. His love for his family was the heart of who he was. Jose is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Rosalva V. Cantu of Harlingen; his children, Jose Abel Cantu, Jr. (Yanamar) of Bacolod, Philippines, and Dr. Danira Vanessa Cantu of Harlingen; and his cherished grandchildren, Summer Jane P. Cantu and Danira Rose Cantu. He is also survived by his siblings: Lucy Quinones (Ventura), Santos H. Cantu (Elizabeth), Moises Cantu (Elsi), Adriano Kantun (Alma), Evelin Cantu, and Eline Lopez (Gabriel); as well as numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Adrian Cantu and Rosaura Chan, and by his brother, Victor M. Cantu. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a service at 7:00 PM at Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen, Texas. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, December 11, 2025. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM at Templo Bethel Church, 916 W. Filmore, Harlingen, Texas. A Celebration of Life will begin at 1:00 PM with Pastor Rafael Rodriguez officiating, and the entombment will follow at Heavenly Grace Memorial Park in La Feria, Texas. Pallbearers will be Jose Abel Cantu, Jr., Victor Manuel Cantu III, Regino Vaquera, Jacob Vaquera, Benjamin Vaquera, and Jonathan Kantun. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Todd Shenkenberg and his staff for their consistent care and kindness. The family is sincerely grateful to the nurses at Valley Baptist Medical Center for so lovingly attending to him during his time in their care. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen, Texas. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Jose Abel Cantu Sr.

December 4, 1951 - December 8, 2025

Explore Obituaries &
Upcoming Services