Eleasar H. Vela, lovingly known by many names—“Red,” Alex, Lalik, Tio Charè, and El Colòradó—passed away peacefully in Victoria, Texas, surrounded by the love of his large and extended family. He was 80 years old.
Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on May 28, 1944, to Lorenzo F. “Lencho” Vela and Barbarita H. Vela, Eleasar was one of eight siblings and carried the nickname “Red” proudly, given to him by his brothers and sisters. He shared a deep bond with his siblings: Domingo “Mingo,” Chriselda “Shela,” Manuel “Me Me,” Palmina “Palma,” Ysmeal “Ysmo,” Edmundo “Mundo,” and David.
He was a lifelong commercial painter, known for his dedication, precision and bringing his grandchildren to work, until health challenges brought him home. During those years, he found new purpose in supporting his late wife, Juana “Jane” Vela, with the family hair salon—a vibrant, welcoming space that kept the family closely connected. He cared for her tirelessly through her battle with cancer, and remained devoted until her passing eight years ago.
Eleasar was the proud father of three sons: Jesse Vela, Edward Vela (deceased), and Jett Rios. He also embraced five stepchildren as his own: Annette Franco, Dean Anthony (Lisa) Garcia, Mary Jane Benavides, Dino (Ibeth) Garcia, and Trino (Yvette) Garcia. Through their children and grandchildren, Eleasar’s family tree flourished—blessed with 17 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.
A die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, Eleasar’s passion was impossible to miss—his room and car proudly adorned in team colors and logos. He had a fondness for collecting eagle figurines and all kinds of unique treasures. But what truly made him unforgettable was his gift for storytelling. Eleasar had a tale for every moment, punctuated with sound effects, hand gestures, and contagious laughter that brought everyone together.
He was a peacemaker and a unifier, always encouraging harmony among family and friends. You could find him picking and shelling pecans in the fall, dancing at family gatherings, or stepping out in style with his signature Stacy Adams shoes, jewelry, and perfectly pressed shirts and caps.
Later in life, Eleasar found joy in faith and fellowship. He often attended services at Centro de Alabanzas with his brothers, especially enjoying Pastor Leroy and Debra Cantu’s messages and hearing his brother David play guitar in the church band. His nephew Jimmy Vela often prayed with him, and his niece Biya held a special place in his heart, chatting with him for hours and brightening his days.
Though life brought challenges, Eleasar’s heart remained centered on family, tradition, and togetherness. His presence was a constant thread that wove through every celebration, gathering, and memory.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane Vela; his son, Edward Vela and his granddaughters; Jessica Marie and Briana Vela.
Eleasar is survived by his sons Jesse Vela and Jett Rios; his grandchildren Jesse Jr., Dillon, Edward Jr., and many others; his stepchildren and their families; his siblings; and countless nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and extended family who loved him dearly.
His stories, his laughter, and his unmistakable style will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Pallbearers are Andrew Garcia, Ryan Martinez, Bobby Patrick, Dillon Vela, DJ Vasquez, Ricky Vasquez, Frankie Garcia, and Dunnie Chacon.
Visitation will be 10:00am to 11:00am Saturday, May 24, 2025, in Yorktown, 212 E Main St., Yorktown, Texas 78164. Funeral Services will begin at 11:00am also on Saturday at with Pastor Jimmy Vela officiating.
