Uvaldo Rivera Santana, Sr.

Uvaldo Rivera Santana, Sr., of Olton, passed away June 21, 2026, in Olton, Texas, surrounded by his family. A rosary will be held at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Ramage Funeral Directors, in Olton. Memorial services will be held at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Trinity Baptist Church, in Olton. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Trinity Baptist Church, with Pastor Arturo DeLaCruz officiating and Pastor Fernando Flores assisting. Interment will follow at Olton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Ramage Funeral Directors, in Olton.

Uvaldo was born in Zaragoza, Coahuila, Mexico, to Pablo and Alva Rivera, on July 31, 1939. He was married to Mercedes Jimenez Rivera on April 24, 1962, in Plains, Texas. In the 50's, he came to the United States as part of the Bracero Program to make a better life for himself and his family.

Uvaldo was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years working as a farmhand. Through perseverance, determination, and an unwavering work ethic, he was able to fulfill his dream of owning a few acres of land, where he proudly raised his beloved goats and cared for his pigs. His love for animals was evident in the time and attention he devoted to them throughout his life. Known for his generosity and kind heart, Uvaldo was always willing to help others and give what he could to those in need. He was a loving father who worked tirelessly to provide for his family and instilled the values of hard work, respect, and perseverance in his children.

Uvaldo's greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and cherished beyond measure. He enjoyed spending time with them and creating memories that will be treasured for generations. He will also be remembered for his lively spirit, his love of dancing, and his wonderful sense of humor. Uvaldo had a gift for making people laugh with his jokes and quick wit, bringing joy to family and friends wherever he went. His legacy of hard work, generosity, love, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Uvaldo is preceded in death by his wife, Mercedes Rivera, parents, Pablo and Alva Rivera, his sisters, Teresita Rivera, Estella Valdez, brothers, Norberto Rivera, Rodolfo Rivera, and Pablo Rivera.

Uvaldo is survived by his daughters, Connie Guerrero, Terry Gomez (Ismael), Rosie Marquez (Jose Tomas), Cristela DeLaCruz (Arturo), a god-daughter, Nancy Lazcano (Ramiro), and a son, Uvaldo Rivera, Jr. (Dolores), and his sister, Elvira Villarreal. He was blessed with 20 grandchildren: Cassandra Gil, Gabbie Garcia, Saul Rivera, Cristian Rivera, Mercedes Rivera, Vanessa Ocampo, Daniella Yebra, Sarah Chavira, RJ Chavira, Javien Rivera, Alex Gomez, Laurissa Sarellano, Abigail Gomez, Crystal Munoz, Tommy Marquez, Josue Uvaldo Marquez, Jacob Marquez, Carlos Marquez, Lorena Lopez DeLaCruz, and Antonio DeLaCruz, 34 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family of Uvaldo wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Interim Health Care, and to the amazing staff, nurses, and CNA's at Runningwater Draw Care Center for taking great care of our dad. Thank you all for your prayers, floral arrangements, food offerings, and especially your presence during this most difficult time. May God bless you all abundantly.