Merced Gonzales

MERCED GONZALES

August 7, 1940 – November 21, 2025

Merced Gonzales, 85, of the RGV and Boerne, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in San Antonio, TX surrounded by his family. He was a devoted husband, father, a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and proud veteran of the United States Army.  His life was defined by his unwavering commitment to those he loved and his service to his country.

Merced Gonzales was born on August 7, 1940, in Mercedes TX.  He was preceded in death by his parents Ignacio and Gorgonia Gonzales and three brothers, Joe, Cruz and Ignacio Gonzales.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Maria Amparo Gonzales and their four sons: Merced Jr. (Erin), Marcus (Alejandra), Michael (Amy), and Martin Arturo (Jean) Gonzales; his two brothers John and Mingo Gonzales and sister Mary Valdez.

His greatest pride lay in his family, and that pride overwhelmingly extended to his nine grandchildren: Merced III, Marlowe, Sarita, Gabriela, Andrea, Jonathon, Jax, Jess, Sam, Shae, and Zoe. He was a grandfather in the fullest sense—present, loving, and deeply invested in their lives.  His grandchildren always knew where to go for a warm hug, a sweet smile and a calming presence.

Merced was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His testimony and love for his church family were cornerstones in his life.  His unwavering faith in an eternal family directed his actions on Earth and was the foundation of his life.  This foundation remains the tie that binds his family together today…and forever.

Merced served six years in the United States Army, with most of his time spent stationed in South Korea and Germany. His service was a defining chapter of his life, a testament to his character and his commitment to country.  He was so proud to have served and was seldom seen without his US Army Veteran cap.

He will be remembered for his steadfast loyalty, gentle strength, and the deep love he had for his wife and sons. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the family he so proudly was the head of.

A viewing will be held at Rivera Funeral Home in McAllen, Texas on Monday, December 1 from 4 to 7 pm. A memorial service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel (300 W Trenton Rd Bldg. B, McAllen, TX 78504) on Tuesday, December 2 at 10:30-11:30 am.  Interment will immediately follow at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery (2520 Inspiration Rd, Mission, TX 78572).  In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Missionary Fund.

https://donate.churchofjesuschrist.org/contribute/church/missionary-fund

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Merced Gonzales, please visit our floral store.