Gustavo Rea

Gustavo “Tavo” Rea

Pharr, Texas – Gustavo Rea, 70, passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at McAllen Heart Hospital.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Maria Del Refugio Rea; his brother, Alfredo Rea; and his parents, Jose and Maria Del Refugio Rea.

Gustavo is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 50 years, Maria Elena Rea; his three cherished children, Iraida Rea, Gustavo Rea Jr., and Daniel Rea; three adored grandchildren; and four siblings, Sylverio Rea, Jorge Rea, Lidia Rea, and Maria Del Refugio Rea. Born and raised in humble beginnings along "brecha 120, kilometro 102" near Valle Hermoso,Gustavo was orphaned at the age of six and raised by his paternal grandparents. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work, helping his grandfather, Don Tomas, in the “parcelas.” On weekends, Gustavo enjoyed walking through the town plaza, where he met Maria Elena, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in love, perseverance, and dedication.

A proud father, Gustavo took immense joy in celebrating the accomplishments of his children. One of his most recent projects was hand-painting a large boulder in his front yard to showcase the universities his children graduated from—a lasting symbol of his pride.

In addition to his three children, Gustavo had another baby, RCA, which he co-founded with his "brother," Raul. Over 30 years, he grew RCA from a small masonry supply store into a thriving business. Known for his unmatched work ethic, Gustavo began his days at 5:30 a.m., always the first to arrive and the last to leave. Even Sunday afternoons were spent preparing for the week ahead, reflecting his dedication to the “negocio.”

His Sunday mornings were reserved for family visits to "La casa de Mariquita," his mother-in- law’s home, where laughter, conversation, and “pan dulce” created treasured memories. On Wednesday evenings, Gustavo and Maria attended prayer group at Holy Family, deepening theirfaith and connection to the Lord.

Though Gustavo’s circle was small, it was filled with love, loyalty, and joy. His playful and vibrant personality will be dearly missed by many—especially by his Sunday morning crowd.

Services:

Visitation will begin at 4 p.m., with a rosary at 6:30 p.m., on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home, 208 E. Canton, Edinburg. A funeral service will take place at 12 p.m., Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, followed by interment at Palm Valley Memorial Gardens in Pharr. 

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.