John V. Garza

Pastor John V Garza Jr, 75, husband of 32 years to Stella Garza, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at his residence in San Antonio Texas. He was born on October 5th, 1948, in San Antonio Texas, a son of the late Anna and John H Garza. 

Pastor John’s ministry and legacy have had a substantial and lasting impact, all led by his dedication to faith, family, and service. He graduated from Burbank High School and enlisted in the US Marines. John served in Vietnam with honors. After returning from service, Pastor John devoted himself to his family and worked diligently to build his career and be a good provider. In addition to owning his own welding shop, he taught at St. Philips College and worked for many years at Lancer Corporation. After the passing of his first wife Mary, He focused on his children. After a time, he reunited with childhood friend Stella Moreno and her two children. He often said he followed her into church one too many times and found a love for her and for the Lord. They were soon married and he quickly advanced in leadership at Cornerstone Church in San Antonio where he was eventually Ordained by pastor Hagee and graduated from Wayland Baptist University. Pastor John worked as a Christian Life Counselor and was an original Member of the Government of 12 Outreach Program leading the tribe of Naphtali. His outreach included work with Veterans, Men's Studies, a truck stop ministry, homeless outreach, and work with schools to provide for underprivileged families all spanning nearly 30 years. All the while he was serving his family as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and was playing golf every chance he could. His Impact and Influence will be felt for many years to come. 

He is preceded in death by his late wife of 19 years Maria Luisa Reyna Garza, parents Anna Valdez Garza and John H Garza, his brothers Ruben Garza, Richard Garza and son Robert Centeno. He is survived by children, Veronica Carr and husband Joseph Carr, Jessica Gallegos and husband Timothy Gallegos, and Gabriel Anthony Garza; and brother Mike Garza; grandchildren, Victoria Centeno, Alexander Cortinas, Hannah, Eryn, and Caleb Gallegos, Joseph and Sophia Carr in addition to numerous extended family members. 

The family will receive guests on Sunday, September 8th, 2024, at Friendship Church in San Antonio memorial service.