Praxedes "Prexie" Garcia Sr., 91, of Bay City, TX passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on November 11, 2015.

Prexie was born January 1, 1924 in Cuero, TX to Jose Vela Garcia and Tomasa Garza. After the untimely passing of Tomasa, when Prexie was three years old, he and his two brothers, Ray and Jose Luis, were raised by their maternal grandmother and aunt. This next phase of his life was marked by the bonds of brotherhood and family, whose love and support helped Prexie through a very difficult time. This event cemented a strong bond between the brothers, and brothers Luis and Rudy Tejeda, who were raised with the family.

A true son of Texas, Prexie's work ethic was forged in the fields at a young age and propelled him in life. It was in the same fields that he received his letter calling him to serve his country. He received four bronze stars while serving in the Pacific Campaign in WWII. After the war, Prexie came home to begin the greatest journey of his life. He fell in love with and married Rafaela Salazar in 1950, in Cuero, TX. The couple had eight children, six boys and two girls. It was during these years that Prexie instilled a sense of pride and self-worth in his children, always encouraging them to work hard, and "never let anyone call you lazy."

To those that knew him, Prexie was a sharp dressed and charismatic man, who could make you laugh, when you needed it the most. He was an incredible story teller, who entertained multiple generations of family and friends. Prexie was generous and kind, often giving to others until it hurt. He was unstoppable and never gave up, despite the odds or the challenges before him. He shared nuggets of wisdom filled with deep messages embedded in hilarity. He loved life and those that surrounded him, including his beloved dogs, whom brought him happiness and companionship.

Prexie is preceded in death by his loving wife Rafaela and his daughter Tomasa. He is survived by his children: Jose, Marion, Prexie Jr., Frankie, Jesse, Ray, Gloria, and their families. He leaves behind 18 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He will be deeply missed.

The family will receive visitors Sunday, November 15th from 2:00-8:00pm, with a 6:00pm Rosary, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Mass will take place at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 16, 2015 with Msgr. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck, Texas.