Manuel Cantu, Jr.

In Loving Memory of Manuel Cantu Jr.

Devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend. With heavy hearts and much love, we announce the passing of Manuel Cantu Jr., who left this world on May 22, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by the love of his family in the comfort of his home. Manuel Cantu was born to Manuel Cantu Sr. and Petra Cantu in Corpus Christi Texas on November 27th, 1934 followed by his twin brother Andrew Cantu.

Manuel was the example of strength, laughter, and love. A hardworking man from a young age, he spent many years as a migrant worker, traveling across states to provide for his growing family. Eventually, he made his home in Hobbs, New Mexico, where he worked in the oilfields before following his heart into the world of cars and community lending—earning a reputation as the neighborhood’s unofficial car salesman and loan officer.

Though he enjoyed a good day at the horse track, a bingo win, or the frequent trips to the casino, Manuel’s greatest joy was always his family. He found deep fulfillment in the laughter of his grandchildren and the tender moments shared with his great-grandchildren. He was our strength, a storyteller—and above all, the heart of his family.

Manuel is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Tina Cantu, and his precious children: daughters Sylvia Porras (husband Fabian Porras), Rose Loera (husband Daniel Loera), Natalie Cantu, Minerva Guajardo (husband Juan Manuel Guajardo), and Lori Quiroz (husband Dago Quiroz), sons Richard Lopez, Rene Cantu (wife Sylvia Cantu), and Robert Cantu. He was a proud grandfather to 25 grandchildren and a loving great-grandfather/great-great-grandfather to 51 precious children. He also leaves behind his dear sisters Lola Leal and Blanca Gonzalez (husband Tino Ramos), and his twin brother Andrew Cantu (wife Julia Cantu) .

Manuel was preceded in death by his sons Rene Cantu at 2 months old, Juan Manuel Cantu (Camaron), his daughter in law Ana Theresa Cantu, both parents Manuel Cantu Sr., Petra Cantu, 2 brothers Crisoforo Cantu, Melchor Cantu, 2 sisters San Juana Montanez, Elisa Juarez, his grandchildren Eddie De La Paz, Andrew John De La Paz, Manuel Xavier Cantu and Jesus David Andrade.

Manuel Cantu Jr. fought courageously to remain with those he loved. His legacy will live on in the strength of his children, the laughter of his grandchildren, and the stories shared around family gatherings for generations to come.

He was deeply loved. He will be dearly missed. And he will never be forgotten.