Sylvester De Hoyos, Jr.

Sylvester DeHoyos, Jr., of Cibolo, Texas passed away on November 12, 2023, at 69 years of age.   He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. His legacies as a devoted husband, father, tireless caregiver, humble servant and friend will live on in the many lives he touched.  

Sylvester was the eldest of eight children, born on November 26, 1953, in Victoria, Texas. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Cecilia and Sylvester DeHoyos, Sr., sister, Angelita Rose and brother-in-law Keith Edward Smith. 

Sylvester is survived by his loving wife, Christina DeHoyos of 16 years of marriage, children, Ellyana DeHoyos, Erica DeHoyos, Christopher Ortiz, Alexxis Delatorre (Paul), Sabastian Hinojosa, and Melissa McLaughlin, siblings, Teresa Martinez, Blanche DeHoyos, John DeHoyos, Mark DeHoyos (Cindy), Alice Perez, Cecilia Smith,  grandchildren, Cass and Giselle McLaughlin and great grandchildren Jolie and Charley McLaughlin and many caring nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws who filled his life with laughs and good times.

Sylvester graduated from Abilene High School in 1972, where he was fondly remembered for his humility and kind temperament.  Upon graduation he enlisted in the US Air Force, to honorable serve his Country.  During his six years of service, Sylvester obtained the rank of Sergeant, served during the Vietnam War and enjoyed the opportunities overseas, especially visits to Germany and Taiwan, experiencing their cultures and foods.   He proudly served our Nation, considering it an honor.  Following discharge from the US Air Force in 1976, he began his second career serving individuals with Special Needs. Initially, at the Abilene State School, in 1978, then relocating to Corpus Christi State School, through 1995, and finally to Council Oaks Community Options, in 2004.  Motivated by his desire to learn and drive to better himself, he took opportunities to advance in the field acquiring the necessary skills to advance into management. He retired as Qualified Intellectually Delay Professional (QIDP) after 15 years of service.  He had an excellent and trusted rapport with families and professionals he encountered along the way.  His dedication to this vulnerable population fostered trusting relationships with the individuals he served. 

In his post-career years, he enjoyed his interests and hobbies.  Sylvester enjoyed reading, drawing, seeing new movies, taking walks, and weightlifting, the heavier, the better.  He would set personal goals and push himself to meet those goals to keep himself strong and healthy.  He enjoyed vacationing in Port Aransas, beach time with his family was his “peaceful place”, he would always, say and rooting for the Cowboys, as their greatest fan! 

Sylvester’s proudest achievements were his children, Ellyana, Erica, Christopher, Alexxis, Sabastian, and Melissa.  He made no distinction between his children and stepchildren, he was simply called dad by all of them.  He was a perpetual cheerleader to their many interests, never missing an opportunity to attend school events or extra-curricular functions and always shared his pride in their abilities.  He especially enjoyed watching Ellyana participate in her gymnastics competitions, cheering her on all the way!

One of the most important people in Sylvester’s life, his loving wife, Christina, his best friend and soul mate.  Their marriage was built on lots of laughter, understanding, and peace. Christina attributes the happiness of her life to Sylvester’s salvation, unconditional love and support. 

The legacy he has built and the support he gave can be found among the many people who had the privilege to call him a husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend. Sylvester was a light, and that light will continue to shine through the many people who were blessed to cross his path.