Henry Ezequiel Ybarra

Henry Ezequiel Ybarra, 89, born in San Benito, Texas was called home by the Lord on May 11, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering service, compassionate leadership, and boundless love for his community and family.

From an early age, Henry demonstrated a tireless work ethic, starting at Ogdee Bros. mercantile in San Benito at just 11 years old. He was a 1955 graduate of San Benito High School. His continued pursuit of education led him to Texas Southmost College in Brownsville then on to the University of Texas in Austin, where his studies in business and accounting laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Amid his academic pursuits, Henry answered the call to serve his nation, joining the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960—a chapter in his life that reflected his steadfast patriotism and commitment to duty and honor. 

Upon returning to UT Austin and continuing his education, Henry’s passion for helping others flourished as he accepted a job as a social worker for the Texas Department of Human Services in Brownsville.  After earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1970 from Texas A & I University in Kingsville, he worked tirelessly for the Texas Rehabilitation Commission as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, retiring in 1995 after decades of advocating for the development and well-being of others. 

Henry’s contributions extended far beyond his professional life. As a deeply devoted member of Primera Iglesia Presbiteriana Mexicana for over 55 years, he served as Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and President/Treasurer of the Church Building Committee. One of his proudest achievements was overseeing fundraising activities and the construction of the current temple at 616 E. Jefferson St. 

Known for his boundless energy and generous spirit, Henry also served as President of the Brownsville Nite Lions Club, supporting initiatives that improved lives across the city. Passionate about nurturing the next generation, he worked as a Boys Scout troop leader for the Brownsville Boys and Girls Club, inspiring young minds through camping trips and shared adventures. His commitment to community extended to his role on the Board of Directors for Su Casa Esperanza in Pharr, Texas, where his work offered hope and support to those facing challenges. 

Henry’s life was also enriched by the love of his family. He met Raquel, the love of his life, in 1966, and they married the same year. Their marriage of 58 years, was one of mutual devotion and unwavering support. Henry was a devoted father, doting grandfather and cherished all his nieces and nephews. He was a zealous Longhorn fan, loved spending time on different beaches of the world, especially SPI as a descendant of Padre Balli. He enjoyed traveling, woodworking, nurturing his precious backyard fruit orchard, hunting and fishing with friends/family, and being the life of the party. Though, his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched, the institutions he helped build, and the love he gave so freely. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Raquel Beatriz Cantu Ybarra, and his children, Miriam Annette Ybarra-Rodriguez (Vidal, Jr.), Corinna Elizabeth Ybarra-Arnold (Richard Michael) and Enrique A. Ybarra (Minga Miown); his 4 adored grandchildren, Amelie Janelle Arnold, Selena Anissa Rodriguez, Everett Enrique & Elliott Ezequiel Ybarra. He is also survived by his sisters, Estella B. Gonzalez (Col. Jose Rene†) and Aurora Alice Aranda (George) and numerous nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Rebecca Balli Ybarra, his beloved aunt who helped raise him, Eliza B. Garza, and his sister Ruby Lee (Albert) Garza.

Funeral services with military honors are under the direction of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, June 7th at 10:30 a.m. at Primera Iglesia Presbiteriana Mexicana at 616 East Jefferson St., in Brownsville, Texas.  Visitation with the family will begin at 9:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Henry Ybarra Memorial Church Building Fund c/o Primera Iglesia Presbiteriana Mexicana, P. O. Box 3028, Brownsville, Texas, 78523 or online donations, please click on this link:  *In lieu of flowers*

The family would also like to thank Suncrest Hospice and Crystcare Home in San Antonio for their compassionate care.

Honorary Pallbearers are Troy Arnold, Daniel Balli, Albert Garza III, Jerome Gonzales, Fred Guerra and Kirk Massey.