Manuel De Jesus Cantu

Manuel De Jesus Cantu, born Aug. 30, 1953 passed away July 8, 2025 in Corpus Christi. 

He is preceded in death by his parents Guadalupe and Vicenta Cantu, his sister Adela Guerra and brothers Guadalupe, Phillip and Jaime.

Manuel is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Mary Lou, sons Jacob Cantu (Nancy) and Jason Cantu; daughters Candida Cantu and Sonya Garcia (Celestino), all of Corpus Christi; grandchildren Melinda, Victoria, Jakob, Chloe, Robert, Grabrella, Adrianna, Destiny, Serrina, Rebecca and Audrina and one great grandson Noah; his sister Ninfa Vasquez of Deer Park, Texas; many beloved nieces, nephews, friends and co-workers.

He attended Calallen High School where he was a track star for the Wildcats, setting school records in the 100 meter dash and 4 x 100 relay and placed third at the state finals. He loved the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros, but loved his family and faith most of all. He was a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather and devout Catholic. His superpower was that he was always supporting his children and grandchildren’s activities – never missing a game or a concert.

Manuel was the ultimate provider, ensuring security, health and wellness for everyone he loved. He loved board games and was always ready for a great game of chess – a game he happily shared with many generations.

He was known for his sense of humor and mischievous grin, always quick-witted and could help anyone smile, even through their toughest moments. He knew literally everything and people would say “Ask Manuel” before Google was a thing. 

He was active at St. Peter’s Prince of the Apostles Catholic Church in Annaville where was a eucharistic minister, RCIA sponsor and was a godfather of several individuals.

A viewing will take place Sunday, July 13 starting at 10 a.m. followed by a Rosary 7 p.m. at Sawyer George Funeral Home, 12497 Leopard St.; Corpus Christi, Texas 78410. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, July 14 at St. Peter Prince of the Apostles Catholic Church, 3901 Violet Rd., Corpus Christi, Texas 78410.