Severo Arizmendi Perales was born on February 1, 1930, in El Rancho Los Nogales in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. He grew up alongside his mother, five brothers, and four sisters. From a young age, Severo worked various odd jobs to help support his family, demonstrating early on the selflessness and strong work ethic that would define his life.

In the 1950s, Severo and his brother Francisco made regular trips to Mexico to bring one of their nephews to the United States so he could receive an education. During the school year, Severo worked tirelessly on the railroad, in the fields, and at the grain elevator in Gregory so his nephew could attend school. At the end of each school year, they would take him back home to Mexico. This act alone reflects the kind of man Severo was, generous, determined, and always putting others first.

In August 1968, Severo became a naturalized citizen of the United States, a milestone that allowed him to help bring his family to this country for greater opportunities. In September 1968, he married the love of his life, Guadalupe Cisneros, at Rancho San Ignacio del Arroyo. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and unwavering partnership. They did everything side by side, and she remained faithfully by his side until her passing in September 2018.

Severo and Guadalupe were blessed with three children, Lupita, Jose Severo Jr., and Elsa. He was a devoted father who gave his children the best childhood and instilled in them the values of faith, hard work, and family. Everything they are today is a reflection of the love and guidance he and Guadalupe provided.

His number one priority was always God and family. He was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Church in Gregory, Texas, where he attended regularly. Severo worked for Gregory-Portland Independent School District as a maintenance man for more than 35 years, serving his community with dedication and pride.

A gifted builder and tireless worker, Severo, alongside his brothers and with Guadalupe by his side, built numerous homes, including homes for his siblings, nephews, and even his own children. He carried a constant “vamos acabar” attitude, meaning let’s finish it, and was always determined to complete what he started. He especially loved cutting grass on his tractor and would not let anyone else touch it.

Severo was a loving, giving, and selfless man who always put others before himself. He was the one who brought everyone together, the steady presence in his family, and the example of what it means to live a life of faith and service.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Guadalupe Perales.

He is survived by his children, Lupita Perales, Jose Severo Perales Jr., and Elsa Perales; his grandchildren, Bianca Skinner, Nelson Sambrano, Alexis Sambrano, Avery Garcia, and Kinsey Garcia; and his great-grandchildren, Paisley Skinner, Lincoln Skinner, Major Skinner, and Sienna Cipriano.

His legacy of faith, family, hard work, and unconditional love will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Gracias, Papi, por enseñarnos amor, compasión y paz. Que Dios Lo Bendiga

Visitation will be held from 5 PM until 9 PM on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Winsteads' Funeral Home, where a Holy Rosary will be recited that same evening at 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 AM on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Gregory, Texas. Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at Gregory Cemetery.

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Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads' Funeral Home. 361-643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com