Teodoro Edwardo Saenz III

Obituary for Teodoro “Teddy” Saenz III

Teodoro “Teddy” Saenz III, beloved brother, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 8th, 2025 at the age of 71. Born March 12th, 1954, in San Juan, Texas.

In his early days, Teddy was a force to be reckoned with both on and off the field. After attending McAllen High School, he was recruited to play both baseball and football for Livingston State University. He started all four years in both sports, leading his teams in many achievements, and breaking records along the way, reaching the highest achievement of All American in both sports.

After retiring from playing, Teddy sought to share his love for sports and his wealth of knowledge by coaching and teaching. This allowed him to continue pursuing his passion while making a positive impact for 33 years on countless lives spanning Alabama, Georgia, and Texas.

The one thing that meant the most to Teddy was his four boys. They were his world, and he would sacrifice anything to make sure they had what they needed. Although he was tough from his playing and coaching days, he had a soft spot for his boys, especially as he grew older. He got to play golf, travel, and laugh with them, which is all he ever wanted.

Teodoro “Teddy” Saenz III is preceded in death by his father, Teodoro Edwardo “Lalo” Saenz II, and his mother, Olivia Saenz. He is survived by his sister, Sandra Palacios; his four sons, Joshua, Matthew, Bryan, and Jacob; his daughters-in-laws, Hope and Mikayla; his nephew, Jonathan Palacios and wife Julie Palacios, along with their children, Jonathan James, spouse Madisyn and Jaden Palacios. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Mila, Sawyer, and Savannah, with another granddaughter on the way.

A celebration of life for Teddy will be held Saturday, July 19th, 2025 at 3 pm located at Rivera Funeral Home, 1901 Pecan Blvd., McAllen, TX 78501. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to the following charities in Teddy’s name.

American Heart Association and McAllen Boys and Girls Club

https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/texas

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/boys-and-girls-club-of-mcallen-inc/individual-giving

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy and memories by his family and friends will be forever held and cherished. Love you Teddy!

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