Tributes

Reynaldo Pedro Baeza, age 77 of San Antonio, Texas, faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully the evening of May 18, 2026. The world was graced with his presence when he was born on September 16, 1948 in San Antonio, Texas to Reynaldo Baeza and Florentina Cabrera. He was raised in Del Rio, TX where he spent his childhood and young adult life in the barrio of San Felipe. He enjoyed playing football and attending community activities. His most joyous time was spent marrying his high school sweetheart, Lydia Santellanes, traveling the world (Germany and Korea) and United States (Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Georgia and Texas) through his US Army 20 year career along with his “tiny” family of 6. Settling down in his place of birth, they had built a beautiful home and cornerstone for his children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed time spent at his employment with University Hospital Systems for 20 years as an electronic tech before happily retiring. San Antonio was also where countless friends were made EVERYWHERE as there was hardly a place we went where there was not someone who would immediately say “HI” and catch up with us. Our father was an advocate for all persons by tirelessly volunteering with his church, St. Brigids, by being ANY coach for his kids and grandkids CYO teams and military youth activities, working with his “brothers” (as he would call them) in the Kairos Prison ministry and doing work with his Knights of Columbus group. His most recent contribution was the RAICES organization. Our daddy was a lover of all animals from ducks to turtles to our neighborhood pets and unhoused animals, all of whom were welcome to stop by for a bite to eat or a cool drink of water from the water bowl out front. One mentionable character is Henry, a homeless aged gentlepup who was on hospice that our father wanted to give a final home to. They will be buried together to keep each other company. He is preceded in death by his father Reynaldo L Baeza Sr, his brother Armando Baeza Sr, mother in law Edelmira Santellanes, sister in law Edelmira Rubio and son in law Christopher Cruz. He is survived by his wife and only love, Lydia Baeza and his beloved children: Kim Baeza (Mike Leal), Joel Baeza (Jennifer Poblete), Rebecca Gonzalez, Marisa Baeza, Reynaldo Baeza III and Rachel Baeza. He loved to declare that he was a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren and counting, all of whom he loved and looked forward to seeing each day. Thank you to everyone who has offered their time and love and support during this difficult time. We know how much our father meant to his community and we wish to proclaim that he was with us as he passed and was very much at peace. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at St. Brigid’s Church with the Rosary to begin at 6:00 pm. The funeral mass will begin at 9:30 am on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at St. Brigid’s followed by funeral procession to Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery. The committal service will begin promptly at 11:30 am. The family requests in lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity in Reynaldo Baeza's name.

Tributes

Reynaldo Pedro Baeza

September 16, 1948 - May 18, 2026