Carlos M. Neira

Carlos M. Neira, 80, of Marble Falls, Texas, formerly of Missouri City, Texas, passed away at home in the early hours of May 14, 2026.

Carlos was a beloved friend, teacher, brother, son, uncle, cousin, father, and grandfather whose kindness, generosity, and love of music touched countless lives. He was born on December 23, 1945, in Laredo, Texas, to Antonio and Dolores Neira. He was the youngest of eight siblings: Samuel Neira, Elizabeth Perez, Maria Garza, Jose (Joe) Neira, Santiago (Chago) Neira, Dolores (Lolie) Chapa, and Antonia (Toni) Sanville, all of whom preceded him in death.

Carlos dedicated most of his life to music education. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree from North Texas State University and, following graduation, served in the U.S. Army Reserve, spending time stationed in Germany.

Throughout his distinguished career, Carlos inspired generations of students as a band director and music educator. He taught in Laredo at Nixon High School and later in Houston at Parker Elementary School, Johnston Middle School, and Jefferson Davis High School. In 2001, the Texas House of Representatives recognized Carlos for his outstanding work with Johnston Middle School's mariachi group, Los Galgos, after they earned first place at the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza competition.

Carlos was known for empowering young people to express themselves through music and encouraging them to pursue excellence in all they did. Passionate about supporting fellow educators and advancing music education, he faithfully attended the annual Texas Music Educators Association convention and was widely respected by colleagues as an innovator who helped expand and elevate mariachi education in Houston.

Carlos is survived by his children, Carlos Neira, Rene Antonio Neira, and Jennifer Neira Brown; his grandchildren, Sam Carlos Brown and Bowie Neira; his loving partner, Sara Saenz of Laredo; and his former wife, Tina Neira, who shared his home and lovingly cared for him during his difficult recovery from spinal surgery.

Carlos will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family. He had a remarkable ability to recognize the unique gifts in others and encourage them to reach their fullest potential. His legacy lives on through the family, friends, students, and colleagues whose lives he enriched.

Memorial services will be held on June 20, 2026, from 2 PM to 5 PM at Hillside Funeral Home, 310 W. Hillside Road, Laredo, Texas 78041.

A private interment of ashes will be held at a later date. 

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Hillside Funerals and Cremations; 310 W Hillside Rd. ; Laredo, Texas 78041; 956-724-6060.