Hector Valencia, 89, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Theresa; his parents, Felipe Valencia and Carmen Castañeda Valencia; his siblings, Phillip Valencia and Yolanda Valencia Morris; and his brother-in-law, Robert G. Morris. He is survived by his nieces, Catherine Morris Baltz, Suzanne Morris Kondylopoulos (Constantine), Patricia Morris Santa Cruz (Carlos), and Barbara Morris Middlebrook (Joe); his nephew, Robert Morris (Dawnell); and great nieces and nephews, Madeline, Carlos Patrick, Gabriela, Stavros, Maris, and Robert.

A lifelong San Antonian, Hector graduated from San Antonio Vocational and Technical High School in 1955. He went on to serve proudly in the U.S. Navy. With the support of the GI Bill, he later earned a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education from Our Lady of the Lake University. Hector dedicated more than 20 years to teaching elementary school students in South San ISD.

Hector was a faithful, gentle, and kind soul with a lifelong love of learning. He was known for his devotion to God and to Theresa, his wife of 35 years. A loving son, brother, uncle, and friend, Hector treasured the time he spent with his nieces, nephew, great nieces, and great nephews, with whom he reconnected during the last five years of his life. At his Valencia family home, he enjoyed reading, cooking, playing music, and making his chili sauce. He was especially grateful for the many Thanksgiving celebrations he shared with his family.

Hector's family extends heartfelt thanks to Chris Shahan, Eddie Mendoza, and the caring staff of DeerView Assisted Living and to Nurse Kristen Valverde, Chaplain Daniel Brown and Guiding Light Hospice for the compassionate care they provided during the final months of his life. The family is especially grateful to his nephew Robert and his niece Patricia for their time, generosity, and loving care throughout his final years. Hector will be deeply missed, but his family finds comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his wife; his Mamá and Papá; his brother, Phillip; and his sister, Yolanda.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, October 9th, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 350 Sutton Dr., San Antonio, Texas 78228. The Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m.

Private graveside services and interment, with full military honors, will be held at a later date at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.