Emilio Garcia Valencia Jr., born November 20, 1958, in Galeana, Chihuahua, Mexico, passed away on April 7, 2026, at the age of 67.  He was a beloved father, brother, grandfather, and friend.

Emilio was the proud father of seven children: Trudy Valencia, Julie Larra, Emily Cazares, Amy Valencia, Matthew Valencia, Mark Valencia, and Jasmine Valencia.  He was also a grandfather to 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson.

Emilio was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent much of his life farming, growing wheat, and corn. He spent many years driving tractors and working the land, providing for his family through discipline, resilience, and pride in his work. In his later years, he worked as a truck driver, continuing his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.

He was known for his ability to fix and build almost anything—a true “MacGyver.” If something was broken, he would find a way to make it work. He had the hands and mindset of a builder, similar to Tim Allen on Home Improvement, able to create, repair, and figure things out with ease.

Emilio had a deep love for animals and the life he built on the farm. He raised and cared for a variety of animals over the years, including bunnies, quail, a crow, and even a coyote, often taking the time to domesticate them in his own way. His connection to the land and to animals was a meaningful part of his life.

He was a giving and helpful man who was always willing to lend a hand. He taught his children many life lessons through his actions, hard work, and perseverance. Known for his humor, charm, and resilience, his family often joked that he had nine lives, having experienced several close calls throughout his life.

He also enjoyed listening to music, which brought him peace and joy.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9

He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. His strength, generosity, humor, and unwavering dedication to those he loved will live on through the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hortencia Valencia and Emilio Valencia; his sister, Hortencia Valencia; his brother, Roque Valencia; and his niece, Patricia Valencia.

He is survived by his siblings, Maria Elena Mata, Martha Valencia, Teresa Vera, Susy Valencia, and Manuel Valencia, and maintained a close relationship with his sisters-in-law, Georgia Valencia, Celina Valencia, and Lucy Valencia, and his brothers-in-law, Jose Mata, and Oracio Vera.  Emilio is also survived by the mother of his children, his former wife and lifelong friend, Caroline Valencia.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Lighthouse Funeral Home, 3707 Wolflin Ave., Amarillo, Texas.   Interment will be on Saturday, April 11, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lazbuddie Cemetery, located a mile east of Lazbuddie, Texas on Hwy 145, around 2594, FM 145, under the direction of Lighthouse Funeral Home.