Eriberto V. Rios “Chief” 83 of Runge, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 26, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and father-in-law, remembered for his kind heart, quiet strength, and dedication to his family. He was a hardworking man who always put his family first and took great pride in caring for his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His kindness and friendship touched the lives of many, and he will be remembered not only for the family he loved dearly, but also for the people whose lives he touched along the way.
He is survived by his loving wife, Maria Elena Rios; his daughters, Pat Hackney (Jay Hackney), Roxanne Ramos (Richard Ramos), Cynthia Rios, and Mary Alice Herrera (Joe Herrera); his son-in-law, Daniel Garcia; his brother, Homer Rios; his grandchildren, Davy “Bubba” Villanueva Jr., Roman Garcia, Delanie Ramos, Kyndle Hackney, Tyler Hackney, Jacob Herrera, and Jared Herrera; his great-grandchildren, Katarina, Izabella, Alena, Dominic, Mia Villanueva, Luciano Hernandez, Roman Hernandez, Rufino Garcia, Bentley Hackney, and Victoria Hackney; and numerous other family members and loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jenny Rios Garcia; his son, Eriberto V. Rios Jr.; his parents, Jose and Ninfa Rios; and his brothers, Jose Rios Jr. and Alejandro Rios.
His love, guidance, and dedication to his family will never be forgotten. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Funeral services were held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Eriberto V. Rios was buried at Runge Latin American Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Davy I. Villanueva Jr., Roman Garcia, Joe Herrera, Richard Ramos, Jay Hackney, Jacob Herrera, and Jared Herrera. Honorary pallbearer, Daniel Garcia.