Manuel Cantu Longoria, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and friend to all passed away at the age of 77, on September 25, 2025 in Marshall, Texas surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born on May 27, 1948 in Aguascalientes, Mexico. His parents were Eduardo Acosta Longoria and Rafaela Cantu Longoria. He grew up in Mission, Texas, a product of Mission High School. He developed a strong work ethic from an early age. He worked many jobs from picking cotton and fruit with his father, to later working in retail as a furniture salesman. He could sell a washer and dryer to people who had no electricity because he was that good. He grew to love classic cars and hot rods. Where at times he would race them for fun and new parts. In particular, he loved a 55' Chevy. In 1977, He moved to Marshall, Texas. He began working as a steel melter first at Smith Steel Casting Company for 10 years. He then worked as a melter, foreman, and consultant at Southwest Steel Casting Company in Longview, Texas for 33 years. His work was physically and mentally demanding. And while it may have taken a toll on him at times, he was determined to provide for his family no matter what. He made many lasting friendships that remain strong to this day and whom he considers family. Manuel was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, who rarely missed a game on tv. Despite their ups and downs he stayed true to his team. Someone could always expect him to make a phone call and they'd hear "How 'bout them Cowboys" or "what happened to your Texicans?" He also grew a love for the Texas A&M Aggies, despite being led the wrong way for many years in supporting the school in burnt orange in Austin that we shall not name.

He will be remembered for his caring heart and helping others. From fixing cars, translating, filling out paperwork, or giving a friend a ride. If you had a need he was there to help. He could find humor in almost any situation and never missed the chance to deliver the perfect one-liner. Above all else, he considered his family his greatest joy and legacy. Nothing brought him more pride than watching his children, grandchildren, and loved ones grow, succeed, and carry forward the values he held dear. His happiest moments were spent surrounded by family sharing meals, swapping stories, and cheering on every milestone, big or small. He was known for his strong work ethic, quick wit, and generous spirit. Whether offering advice, lending a hand, or simply being present, he made everyone feel seen and cared for. His legacy is not only in the love he gave but also in the lessons he instilled; to work hard, love deeply, and put family first.

Manuel is survived by Alfonsina Escalon Longoria, married on November 10th, 1984, his loving wife of 40 years. His children Manuel Longoria Jr. and wife Berta, Maricela Longoria Peña and husband, Eleazar, Eduardo Omar Longoria and wife, Lindsay, Melissa Longoria Hill and husband, Corrie, Laura Longoria Luna and husband, Saul, and Elizabeth Longoria Acuña and husband, Oscar. His grandchildren Oscar Longoria, Juan Carlos Longoria and wife, Diana, Valerie Marie Bilnoski and husband, Brandon, Tristan Michael Ordaz and wife Maddie, Jose Antonio Rodriguez Jr., Cecilia Isabel Rodriguez, Mariela Aguirre, Alex Peña, Brandon Peña, Clay Peña, David Longoria and wife, Maeghan, Gabriel Longoria, Jaxon Adams, Ava Adams, Parker Adams, Olivia Adams, Lauren Elise Hill, Carlos Manuel Hill, Adelina Longoria Luna, Saul Eliseo Longoria Luna, Theo Luka Acuña, Alek Liano Acuña. His great grandchildren Micah Lane Bilnoski and Jonah Mateo Ordaz. His sisters San Juanita Flores and husband, Jose. Teresa Flores and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eduardo Longoria and Rafaela Cantu, and his sister Maria Luisa Foster.

Services for Manuel Cantu Longoria, Sr., 77, of Marshall, Texas will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in the Chapel of Downs Funeral Home. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 29, 2025, at the funeral home.