Evelio Joseph Cardona

On March 12, 2026, Evelio Joseph Cardona, lovingly known by most as Joey Cardona, passed away suddenly and is now in the loving arms of Jesus. Joey was born on January 29, 1986, in Houston, Texas. He called Richwood, Texas home with his beloved wife, Cait, and their beautiful daughters, Isabelle and Ellie Jo. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him. Joey was preceded in death by his grandparents, Margery and Culby Henderson and Evelio Cardona; his uncles, Alan Henderson and Marco Hernandez; and his brother-in-law, Cody Ford. Joey leaves behind his devoted wife, Caitlyn, and his beautiful daughters, Isabelle and Ellina Jo, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his mother, Cynthia Cardona; his father, Evelio Cardona; his sister, Margi Ford; his brother-in-law, Stephen Pitarra; and his niece, Audrey Cardona. Joey was a proud oil rig operator who truly loved his job and the crew he worked alongside. He viewed the rig as his mission field. Joey believed with all his heart that the Lord had placed him on those rig sites to disciple and encourage the men he encountered in their walk with Him. His mindset was, “As long as I am still out here, God still has a purpose for me here.” He showed up every day boldly for the Lord. At home, Joey cherished the simple moments most. Early mornings were often spent sitting outside with his wife Cait, sipping coffee and reading the Bible together, soaking in the quiet before the day began. He enjoyed starting the day by cooking breakfast with his little girl and sought every opportunity to teach her about the Lord. His greatest joy was found in being with his girls. Whether working in the backyard, visiting the “flower store,” learning about homesteading, kayaking with his wife, taking beach trips, hosting movie nights on the back porch with the whole family, or scouting out new fishing holes, Joey treasured every minute spent with his family. While Joey is no longer with us here, we hold tightly to the promise of faith. We believe that the moment Joey closed his eyes on earth, he opened them in the loving arms of Jesus. Though our hearts ache, we are thankful for God’s promise and the comfort of knowing Joey is home in heaven. We trust that one day we will reunite with him in the glory of God.