10/07/2025
Rafael A. Liceaga, age 79, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 while surrounded by his family here in Del Rio. He was born on October 26, 1945 in Sabinas, Coahuila, Mexico.
At a young age, Rafael inherited his passion for music from his father. He pursued his musical and artistic interests in Mexico City, where he studied music at Bellas Artes. Throughout his life, Rafael remained a dedicated musician, playing the piano, guitar, and bass. He generously shared his musical knowledge by teaching numerous adults and children, including his own grandchildren. Rafael also performed for various audiences in Mexico.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Rafael was an active member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church. He was part of the church choir and actively participated in the parish community such as ACTS. Additionally, he enjoyed road trips, traveling, and attending baseball games.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude to Val Verde Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the exceptional care they provided to Rafael during his time there.
Preceding him in death was parents, Maria and Rafael Liceaga; sister Maria Del Carmen Liceaga, brothers, Julio Cesar Liceaga and Gilberto Liceaga.
Family members left to cherish his memory include beloved wife of 23 years, Juanita Liceaga of Del Rio; children: Lillian Liceaga of Converse, TX, Rafael Liceaga Jr. and wife Dawn Morales of San Antonio, TX, Carlos Villalobos of Dallas, TX, Maribel and husband Mark Barker from Virginia ,Gabriela Lopez and husband Albert Chavarria of Del Rio, Brisa Lopez and husband Baldo Hernandez of Del Rio, Jose and Zoe Lopez of San Angelo, TX, and Georgina Rios of Del Rio; sisters: Blanca Martinez and husband Gustavo Martinez of Del Rio, Martha Elizabeth Liceaga of Sonora, MX, and Cecilia Liceaga also of Sonora, MX; grandchildren: Dominic, Kevin, Aiden, Lucian, Isabella, Sophia Gabriela, Ariana, Luke, Alberto, Baldo, Sarahi, Brandon, Camila, Anthony, Ailany, Jayden, Valeria, Christian, Mallory and Montana; Rafael is also survived by 5 great grandchildren, and other relatives and close friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 5 to 9 p.m. in the Trinity Chapel of Faith. A Holy Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. by Agnus Dei Choir Group.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Rafael Liceaga Jr., Kevin Liceaga, Aiden Quam, Gustavo Martinez, Lucian Quam, Anthony Rios, and Christian Hernandez.
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