In memory of...

Francisco Javier Velez

Francisco Javier Velez, known by many as “Guero,” “Tank,” and “Nitro,” passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 58.

Francisco was born and raised in El Paso, Texas. He was the second eldest son of Carmen Velez and Efriam Velez and grew up alongside his siblings, Efriam Jr., Norma, Manuel, Humberto, Omar, and Erik.

He graduated from Austin High School in 1986, where he distinguished himself as a talented football player and helped break several records. His love for football began during those years and remained one of his greatest passions throughout his life.

Francisco continued his education at the University of Texas at El Paso, earning his Bachelor’s degree in December 1991 and his Master of Education in July 1996.

Although Francisco held several jobs throughout his lifetime, he ultimately found his calling as a mentor through education and coaching. At Gadsden High School, he coached football, baseball, and wrestling. Wrestling became his true coaching passion, and he dedicated himself to strengthening the program and developing feeder programs that gave younger athletes an opportunity to become involved earlier.

For Francisco, coaching was never simply about wins and losses. He believed sports could teach discipline, confidence, structure, and perseverance. He cared deeply about his athletes and wanted them to know that someone believed in them. His impact was felt throughout the Gadsden High School community, where he was known as a mentor, supporter, and trusted presence.

Francisco shared 31 years with his life partner, Margie Rodriguez. Together, they built a life and raised their three children: Francisco Javier Jr., Rebecca Maree, and Cristian Adan.

Francisco was a humble, caring, hardworking, and knowledgeable man who made sure the people around him felt supported. Whether through a meal, a conversation, advice, or simply his presence, he had a way of reminding people that they were not alone.

History was one of his greatest passions, but his curiosity reached far beyond it. His family knew that whenever Tio Guero was around, there was always a chance for an unexpected history lesson or interesting fact. He loved learning and found just as much joy in sharing what he knew with others.

Francisco also loved sports of all kinds, but football always held a special place in his heart.

“Steelers Football, baby!”

Watching a game with Francisco meant listening to play-by-play analysis, passionate opinions, jokes, and plenty of friendly trash talk. And if your team was struggling, he was more than happy to remind you just how bad they were—especially if you were a Cowboys fan.

He also loved movies, television, discovering hidden restaurants, spending time with his family, and caring for his dogs. His four-legged furry children and grandchildren were thoroughly spoiled with toys, treats, food, and affection.

To Francisco, they were never pets; they were family.

He will be remembered as a devoted partner and father, beloved son and brother, teacher, coach, mentor, friend, and trusted voice to so many. His humility, wisdom, humor, generosity, and love will continue to live through his family, students, athletes, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have had Francisco in their corner.

Visitation:

Tuesday, September  8, 2026

3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Rosario 7:00 p.m.

Mass:

Wednesday,  September 9, 2026

St. Raphael Catholic Church at 11 a.m.