Thomas Yanez, Jr.

Thomas Yanez, Jr. passed away on October 9, 2026, in Slaton, Texas, at the age of 75. He was born on April 4, 1951, in Rotan, Texas to Thomas Yanez and Anita Compian.

Thomas will be remembered as a man who loved his family deeply, especially his grandchildren. He married Gloria Salazar, February 28, 1970 in Rotan, Texas. He was a devoted Texas Tech and Dallas Cowboys fan and found joy in many simple pleasures throughout his life. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and spending time BBQ’ing. Those who knew him will remember the warmth he brought to family gatherings and the happiness he found in being with the people he loved most.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria Yanez. He also leaves behind his daughters, Amy Ponce and her husband Ruben, and April Gatica and her husband Juan. His grandchildren brought him great pride and joy: Taryn Lewis and her husband Clayton, Cassandra Arreola and her husband Jonathan, Ian Ponce, Malachi Gatica and his wife Maribel, Saul Gatica and Josiah Gatica all of Abernathy, and Kaylie Yanez of Dallas, Texas. Thomas loved his 9 Great Grandchildren, Taven, Abraham, Liam, Santana, Abiah, Easton, Rylie, Rosalyn, and Maliah. He is also survived by his sisters, Anita Yanez and Marselina Yanez; his brothers, Lee Yanez and his wife Mary, and Anthony Yanez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Tommy James Yanez, and by his brother, Santana Yanez.

The family extends special thanks to the Sanders family for always being there.

Family and friends will gather for visitation on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Abell Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Abernathy Church of Christ, officiated by Jared Randall. Burial will follow in the Abernathy Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Abell Funeral Home & Flower Shop of Abernathy, Texas.

Thomas Yanez, Jr. will be remembered with love by his family and friends, and his memory will continue to live on in the lives of all who knew him.