Deacon Martin Aguilar, Sr.

            A Mass of Christian Burial for Deacon Martin Aguilar, Sr., 61, of Lufkin, will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Lufkin with Father Denzil Vithanage officiating. Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Memorial Park in Lufkin.

            With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for his life, we announce the passing of Deacon Martin Aguilar, Sr., who went to be with the Lord on May 6, 2025, in Houston, Texas. Born on January 16, 1964, in Piedras Negras, Mexico, Martin was the beloved son of Julio Aguilar, Sr. and Esperanza Carrillo.

            To know Martin was to know kindness, strength, and a quiet, unwavering faith. A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and humble servant of God. Martin lived a life rooted in love and guided by grace. He dedicated his days not to seeking recognition, but to lifting others up and always ready with a warm embrace, a word of prayer, or a helping hand.

            He served faithfully as a Deacon at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, where his gentle spirit and deep compassion touched countless lives. Whether ministering to a congregation, encouraging a neighbor, or guiding his children with wisdom and patience, he led not just with his words, but by example. His life was a testament to selflessness and an unwavering belief in God’s promise.

            Martin’s strength was perhaps most evident in his final chapter. Diagnosed with cancer, he fought with quiet courage and immense resolve, enduring the pain and hardship with the same dignity and love that defined him. He pressed on not for himself but for his beloved wife, his sons, and the grandchildren that brought light to his eyes. His fight was one of fierce devotion, and he never let go of hope.

            He leaves behind his cherished wife of 45 years, Oralia Aguilar, who stood by his side with faith and love through every joy and every trial. He is also survived by his sons: Martin Aguilar, Jr. and wife Daisy Aguilar, Lee Ryan Aguilar and wife Micha Aguilar, and Allen Elias Aguilar and fiancée Nikki Fulton. His greatest pride was his grandchildren: Martin Aguilar III, Addison Leigh Aguilar, Emma Rian Aguilar, and Ellie Yuliett Aguilar, each one a living reminder of the love poured into his family.

            Martin is also survived by his brother Julio Aguilar, Jr., and his sisters Fidencia, Maria DeJesus, Esperanza, and Virginia Aguilar. He was preceded in death by his parents and his dear brothers Juan and Rolando Aguilar and nephew Juaquin Hernandez, whom he now rejoins in eternal peace.  

            Tho our hearts are broken by his passing, we celebrate a life beautifully lived, a life of deep faith, quiet strength, and unconditional love. Martin’s legacy will live on in every prayer whispered, every act of kindness inspired by his example, and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

            Pallbearers will be Martin Aguilar, Jr., Lee Ryan Aguilar, Allen Elias Aguilar, Daniel Martinez, Julio Aguilar, Jr., and Esteban Davila.

            Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, May 9, 2025, at Shafer Funeral Home. A rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m..

            “Well done, good and faithful servant…. Enter into the joy of your Lord,” – Matthew 25:21

Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.