Rafael Mendez

Rafael Mendez, of Abernathy, Texas, passed away on September 17, 2026, at the age of 67. He was born on May 6, 1959, in Chihuahua, Mexico to Alvaro and Gloria (Torres) Mendez.

Rafael lived a life defined by service, devotion to family, and steady strength of character. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Columbia University, an accomplishment that reflected his discipline and commitment to growth. Rafael married the love of his life Gabriela Ramirez  December 20, 1980 in Los Angeles, California. He served his country with distinction, first in the Marine Corps from 1977 to 1979, and then in the Army from 1979 to 2004, attaining the rank of first sergeant. His military training included amphibious operations in California, jungle training in Panama, cold-weather training in New York, and desert training. During his years of service, he was stationed in Germany and Korea twice, as well as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

Beyond his military career, Rafael was remembered as a great role model who was selfless, strong, hardworking, and full of unconditional love for his family. He loved being with those closest to him and especially enjoyed activities that brought his family together. He coached his children’s sports teams, supported Abernathy sports and community events, and enjoyed traveling. He also found joy in singing, dancing, and bowling. A loyal sports fan, he followed both the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys, though when the two teams met, his loyalty belonged to the Rams.

Above all, Rafael’s family was at the center of his life. He is survived by his beloved spouse, Gabriela Mendez, and by his children, Monique Mendez and Melanie Mendez both of Abernathy, and Michael Mendez and wife Anjelica Mendez of South Korea. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Giselle Mendez, Gabriela Cruz, Giana Leon, Rafael Berrios, Araceli Mendez and Michael Rafael Mendez, as well as  great granddaughter Gianni Mendez. He is further survived by his siblings Regina Lopez, Gloria Rios,Alvaro Mendez, Alfred Mendez, Alfonso Mendez, Rosa Chavez, and Juan Mendez. Rafael will also be remembered by his friends Jesse Benitez, Richard Pena, and Irma Pena, along with many nieces, nephews, brothers in law and sisters in law. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandchild, Shane Michael Gilder; and his siblings Miguel Mendez, Alvaro Mendez, Alfred Mendez, Francisco Mendez, Sergio Mendez, and Efrain Mendez.

The family will gather to receive friends Monday, September 21, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Isidore Catholic Church, Abernathy, TX 79311. Rosary will follow at 7:00 pm in the same church. Funeral Mass will be held on September 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Isidore Catholic Church with Rev. Brian Wood officiating. Burial will follow at 12:45 p.m. at West Texas Veteran Cemetery, 4614 East 50th Street, Lubbock, TX 79403 with Military honors. Services are under the direction of Abell Funeral home & Flower Shop of Abernathy, Texas.