David R. Salinas

On this day, July 15, 2026, we lost the most amazing man of our lifetime. His name was David R. Salinas. He lived a very fruitful life with his family and friends. At the age of 86, David departed peacefully at home, surrounded by his cherished family. He was born October 12, 1939, in Houston,TX to his parents B.B. and Amparo Salinas and later moved to Gregory. During his formative years, he attended The Mexican Elementary school in the city of Gregory. In later years he developed into an excellent High School athlete, excelling in football, basketball, volleyball and track. Upon graduation from high school, he worked as a mechanical engineer at The Reynolds Metal Aluminum Company at the Sherwin plant in Gregory for 16 years. His working career came to an end at the U.S. Army Depot in Corpus Christi after 30 years of service. David was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Gonzalo and Maria Chavez, his two sisters, Lupe Salinas Gonzales of Corpus Christi, and Thelma Salinas Heiser of Austin. He is survived by his brothers: Jesse (Rose Mary), Ben (Judy), Johnny (Jimmie), Mike (Dianna), Celso, (Charlene), Benjamin (Melissa) and sister Susy Salinas (Michael) Roper. David is also survived by his in-laws: Ramiro Chavez (+ Sylvia), Minerva (+ Gilbert) Hinojosa, Esther (Sandy) Vela, and Sylvia, (Eddie) Gonzales and their families. David shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Mary Alice Salinas. Together, they built a family grounded in mutual love, respect and support. He was the proud father of David, (Ludy), Darrell (Missy), and Dwayne Salinas. His legacy extended to his loving grandchildren: Meighan Salinas (Mario), Selena Salinas (Alex), and Isaiah Salinas, and great-grandchildren, Nevaeh and Avery Baldera. A man of wisdom and gentle humor, David found joy in life's simple pleasures, like sharing stories, enjoying nature, and spending time with family. He embraced each moment of his life with joy and gratitude. His presence provided comfort and strength: offering guidance and love to those around him. David’s favorite pastime activity was officiating High School volleyball and basketball games with his sons, Darrell and David, for local and regional high schools. In his final days, David received compassionate care from the Elara Caring Hospice Care, for which the family is deeply grateful and appreciative. As we celebrate David's remarkable life, we are reminded of the profound impact he had on all of his family members and friends. His memory will forever be cherished, living on forever in the hearts of those he loved. May The Mercy and Grace of our Heavenly Father Shine brightly upon David with the eternal light of glory. A Mass will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, 10:00AM Will be at Immaculate Conception Church @ 107 Church St. Gregory TX. Reception to follow right after mass concludes.