José Carlos Sáenz May 28, 1938 – April 6, 2026

With deep sorrow, yet with gratitude for a full and exemplary life, we say farewell to Mr. José Carlos Sáenz, who passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the age of 87, surrounded by the love and legacy of a family that was always the center of his life.

Born on May 28, 1938, in Roma, Texas, Mr. Sáenz was a hardworking man with strong values and a deep love for his community. He graduated from Roma High School in 1957 and, after completing his studies in Biology at Texas–Pan American, followed in the footsteps of his father, Mr. Agapito Sáenz, joining the family business, Saenz Grocery, located on Seventh Street in Los Saenz. From a young age, he demonstrated commitment, responsibility, and a strong spirit of service.

He later married the love of his life, Mrs. María Lydia González de Sáenz. Together, they built a strong home founded on respect, hard work, and faith, and courageously continued the family business, relocating it to Fifth Street, where it became a cornerstone of the community.

In 1976, with vision and an entrepreneurial spirit, Mr. Sáenz founded what is now known as Sáenz Mini Mart, located on Highway 83 and Francesca Avenue. This establishment, now approaching its 50th anniversary, represents not just a business, but the result of decades of honest work and dedication. Although he will not be present to witness this milestone, his children proudly continue his legacy, keeping his name, example, and teachings alive.In addition to his business life, Mr. Sáenz was a true community leader and a dedicated businessman since 1963. He actively participated in organizations such as the Roma Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus, the Roma Chamber of Commerce, and the Catholic Men’s Club of Los Saenz, a group that helped lay the foundation for what is now the Catholic Church of Los Saenz. He also served as a member of the Board of Directors of Citizens State Bank.

His commitment to service led him to serve as City Commissioner of Roma from 1979 to 1983, and later as Mayor from April 14, 1983, to May 4, 1991. During his tenure, he played a key role in important projects that improved the quality of life for residents, including the creation of the water plant where the tower now stands on North Athens Street, as well as strengthening the municipal park with the Community Center building and Police Department.

A man of the land at heart, he deeply enjoyed ranch life and found great joy in cattle ranching, reflecting his connection to the land and his roots. He was also a passionate sports fan, faithfully supporting teams such as the Dallas Cowboys, the San Antonio Spurs, and the Texas Rangers, enjoying every game with enthusiasm and pride.Mr. Sáenz leaves behind a priceless legacy in his beloved wife, Mrs. María Lydia González de Sáenz; his children: Omar Isaac Sáenz, José Miguel Sáenz (wife Carmina), and Juan Carlos Sáenz (wife Verónica); as well as his eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who were a constant source of pride and joy.

Today, we say goodbye to an exemplary man whose impact will endure in his family, his community, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a testament to hard work, leadership, faith, and love. His memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

Rest in peace, José Carlos Sáenz. 

Services will be held at Sanchez Memorial Funeral Home in Roma, Texas. 

Visitation: Friday, April 10: 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.• Saturday, April 11: 8:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. 

Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. at Los Saenz Catholic Church 

Interment: Saturday, April 11 at 11:30 a.m.• Los Saenz Cemetery. We thank you for your presence and prayers during this time.

Roma ~ Jose Carlos Saenz, 87, passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday, April 06, 2026, in Roma, TX. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Sanchez Memorial Funeral Home in Roma, TX.