Herby Lee Gonzales, 88, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026. He was born on April 1, 1938, in El Toro, near Edna, Texas, and lived a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

Herby received his early education during a time when local schools were segregated and later attended Palacios High School, graduating in 1958. His school years came during a period of major change in the community, just a few years before Palacios Independent School District fully integrated its schools in 1963.

For more than 30 years, he worked as a self-employed welder, traveling throughout South Texas and working on pipelines. His career reflected the work ethic and determination that marked his life.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Herby was a faithful parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and a past Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council 6889. His Catholic faith remained a guiding presence throughout his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Teresa Perez Gonzales; his daughters, Terri Machacek and Donna Durio; his sons, David Gonzales, Steven Gonzales, and Mark Gonzales; his grandchildren, Kristen Machacek, Kylie Durio, Charly Machacek, and Trey Durio; and his sons-in-law, Chuck Machacek and Farron Durio.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David Gonzales Sr. and Maria Nava Gonzales; his brothers, David Gonzales Jr., William Gonzales, Gilbert Gonzales, and Ernest Gonzales; and his sisters, Frances Nunez, Janie Gonzales, Aurora Gonzales, Aileen Ochoa, and Sarah Barrios.

Above all, Herby will be remembered for his devotion to Teresa, his love for his family, and the faith that guided him. His strength, character, and love will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Family and friends will gather at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City for visitation on Thursday, September 24, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Palacios on Friday, September 25, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers: Kenneth Barrios, Brandon Barrios, Trey Durio, David Gonzales, Dominic Jimenez, and Sergio Zamora.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May he rest in peace. Amen.