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Bill Gilbert
Rios
Oct 17, 1963 — Jun 21, 2026
Thursday
Compean Funeral Home
5:00 - 11:45 pm (Central time)
Friday
Compean Funeral Home
9:30 - 10:30 am (Central time)
Friday
Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery
11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Central time)
Bill Gilbert Rios, 62, was born on October 17, 1963, in Houston, Texas, and entered eternal rest on June 21, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Bill was a devoted father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend whose larger-than-life personality and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He spent many years as a long-distance truck driver, a profession he loved deeply and one in which he took tremendous pride. Behind the wheel of his beloved Peterbilt, Bill found both purpose and freedom. Some of his favorite memories were made on the open road, especially during the summers when he would take his son, and later his grandsons, along for the journey, creating treasured memories that will live on forever.
A true Houston sports fan, Bill passionately cheered on the Astros, Rockets, and Texans. Whether watching from his favorite chair or the couch, he never missed the opportunity to coach his hometown teams through every game, always convinced he had the perfect play. He also enjoyed returning to two of his favorite local restaurants, James Coney Island—where he worked as a teenager—and Pancho's, places that brought back fond memories of his younger years.
Bill loved reminiscing about the past and had an incredible gift for making people laugh. He always had a clever joke, a witty remark, or a humorous story ready to brighten someone's day. His resilience, quick wit, and unmistakable sense of humor remained with him until his very last day.
Above all else, Bill's greatest joy was being "Popo Bill" to his beloved grandchildren. He treasured every moment spent with them and delighted in spoiling them whenever he had the chance. The love he shared with his family was unconditional, and the memories he created with them will forever be cherished.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Isidro Garza, Sr. and Susie M. Garza, and by his brother, Isidro Garza, Jr.
Left to cherish his loving memory are his son, Gilbert Rios and wife, Trish; his daughters, Teresa Rios, Brandy Rios and husband, Juan Campos, Jr., Armanda Rios, and Ashley Rios; the mother of his children, Elizabeth Escobar; his beloved grandchildren, Mariah, Jordan, Jr., Daniel, Andrew, Maddison, Bishop, and Alaia; his sisters, Sylvia Aguirre and Susie Martinez; as well as numerous other relatives and many dear friends.
Bill's strength, laughter, and unwavering love for his family will never be forgotten. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to live on through the countless memories he created and the love he shared so freely with those fortunate enough to know him.
If you would like to order flowers in memory of Bill Gilbert Rios, please visit azarflowers.com/sympathy
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