Today we celebrate Rico Huerta’s life. Rico was our Son, our Brother, our Uncle, our Cousin, our friend, but above all he was a bright light of love, respect and cheerfulness in many lives. Rico was born on September 16, 1979 in San Benito, Texas and he left us on January 16, 2021 to bask in the eternal glory of heaven. Although Rico was with us for a short 41 years, he brought so much joy and happiness to so many lives. Rico was a proud Texas State University Graduate where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Spanish. While at Texas State University he found more family in the Fraternal Order of Omega Delta Phi. As a member of the Texas State University RHO Chapter of O D PHI Rico and his brothers had among the highest GPA’s at Texas State University, and a lifetime bond that he cherished until the last day of his life. Rico had an infectious smile that stretched for miles and his silly quirks endeared everyone to him. His childhood friends have the fondest of memories of his quirks and will surely tell their children about Rico and how he always carried his own cheese slices to every event, every outing, and every gathering he went to. He loved his cheese and would not have a meal without it. Rico leaves behind his Mom and his Dad. Sara and Ricardo Huerta. Mom and Dad always loved Rico and worked hard to support him throughout his days. As a humble family we sold and grew plants and so Rico was born among the flowers. He had immense knowledge of flowers and loved to grow them. Maybe it was because they were as beautiful and cheerful as he was. Rico also had three sisters: Mary Lou (Rick) Martinez. Marylou being the oldest would sometimes baby sit Rico. As his big sister she helped feed him, clean him up, and she took care of him. But Rico never let her forget that she dropped him down the staircase at our home. It was often a topic of conversation with his big sister. Viviana Huerta (Julio) was the 2nd oldest sister. Rico followed me to Texas State and outshined me on so many levels. Even if he didn’t know it, he made me proud and I know I made him proud too. My college friends new Rico was my brother and often they would tell me how amazed they were with Rico for his quick ability to solve complex math problems. Rico and I had many conversations about politics, culture and academia, but he was still my little brother so every time I would come to visit, he would make me his famous potato and eggs with a side of watery beans. Always a respectful gentleman he would unload my luggage and he made sure I felt at home. Rico always bragged about me to his friends and would tell them I could sing, so every chance he got he would ask me to sing to him and his friends so that they would know it wasn’t just talk. Veronica Huerta (Eddie) had the most intense relationship with Rico. Veronica saw Rico through many challenges, and above all she was with him to the very end. Veronica was his protector, his defender and above all his big-little sister. Finally, Rico’s love for his nieces and nephews had no end. He encouraged each one to pursue a higher education and experience life. He didn’t see the kids as his nieces and nephews he saw them as his little sisters and little brothers. Rico, know that each one loved you as a big brother as well and that you left a proud legacy of knowledge and education for them to follow. Rico, our lives will never be the same without you. The lives of the young people you tutored and taught will be better because of who you were. Although we know you are at peace and free, you will be missed, always loved and you will always be our Little Brother. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted Matthew 5:4 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11: 28-30 Be at rest Rico. Visitation will be held from 5 p.m., until 9 p.m., Thursday, January 21, 2021, with the recitation of the holy rosary to be held at 7 p.m., at Thomae-Garza Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, January 22, at St. Vincent Church with burial to follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park. Due to current COVID restrictions, this establishment will follow the 25% occupancy, limit and all persons shall institute social distancing of a minimum space of 6 feet apart. All individuals must wear face coverings or masks. You may sign the online guestbook and send words of comfort, flowers, or sympathy cards to the family of Ricardo Huerta II at www.thomaegarza.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Directors and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.