Manuel Villarreal

Manuel Villarreal, 81, of Richwood, Texas, passed away surrounded by the love of his family, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at St. Luke’s Health–Brazosport in Lake Jackson, Texas. Born in New Gulf, Texas, Manuel was a lifelong resident of the Brazosport area. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, unwavering dedication, and the deep love he held for his family.

Throughout his life, Manuel took on a variety of jobs, including work on the railroad, in the cement industry, and a brief time in a bakery. During his time at the bakery, those close to him fondly recalled that you always knew when Manuel was home—even before seeing him—because he carried with him the warm, comforting scent of fresh bread. He later found his true calling and went on to spend more than 40 years in the meat cutting industry, where he became well known and highly respected for his skill and commitment. In his younger years, Manuel enjoyed riding his motorcycle, a pastime that brought him great joy.

Manuel leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him. Manuel was a devoted husband and family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Victoria Villarreal. He also leaves behind his sons, Manuel Villarreal Jr., Joseph Villarreal, and John Edward Villarreal. He was a proud grandfather to Chelsea, Valerie, daughters of Manuel Villarreal Jr.; Valerie, Aaron, children of John Edward Villarreal. He is also survived by three great-granddaughters.

He is also survived by his siblings: Clara Zavala, and husband Max, Nolberto Villarreal jr., Mary Anne Ng, and husband Wegin, Angie Villarreal, Robert Villarreal, and wife Nellie, Jesus Villarreal, and wife Alejandra, Bietrice Villarreal, Carlos Villarreal, and wife Wanda, Soila Gutierrez, and husband Mauro, and Adela Villarreal. as well as 44 nieces and nephews

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nolberto Villarreal and Marcelina Villarreal; his sister, Rosa Villarreal; his brothers, Johnny Villarreal, Joe Villarreal, and Andrew Villarreal; and his nephews, Robert Villarreal Jr., George. Velez, and Jerrod Gutierrez. Manuel Villarreal will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His legacy of hard work, love, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved him.