Richard Alvarado, Sr.

Richard “Popo” Alvarado, Sr.
Richard “Popo” Alvarado, Sr., 78, passed away Monday, March 9, 2026, at UTMB Hospital in League City, Texas. He was born in Galveston, Texas on October 3, 1947, to the late Oralia and Joseph Alvarado, Sr. He resided at Bayou Pines Care Center in La Marque after a stroke in 2016.
He honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps, including during the Vietnam War, and carried the values of honor, discipline, and commitment with him throughout his life. He was raised in the Catholic faith and, in his later years, became a devoted member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Texas City, where he truly enjoyed attending services. He found great joy in cooking barbecue and spending time with family and friends. He was a mentor to many, always willing to share his wisdom and life lessons with those around him. Known for his great sense of humor, he loved telling jokes and playing pranks on family and friends. He also had a deep love for music of all genres, from 2Pac to Tejano to Hank Williams. A dedicated and hardworking man, he leaves behind a legacy of service, loyalty, laughter, and a life well lived.
He was proud of his 3 grandchildren and loved them very much. He shared a particularly special bond with his grandson T.J., and the two had a connection like no other. They spent a lot of time together laughing, talking, and enjoying each other’s company. Their relationship was one he truly cherished.
He is preceded in death by his son, Richard Alvarado, Jr.; his parents and grandparents; his brother, Joseph Alvarado, Jr.; and his nephew, Larry Keith.
He leaves behind his daughter, Mechelle Alvarado (Juan Bahena); bonus daughter, Vicky Garcia (Jessica Rincon), grandchildren, Troy “T.J.” Warren, Jr., Courtney Bahena, and Megan Bahena; sisters, Mary Diaz (Noe), Olivia Garza (Gilbert), Melissa Apolinar, Sabrina Simmons, Melinda Boothe (Jimmy), Donna Alvarado, and Angela Bertrand; brothers, Martin Alvarado, Sr. (Sandra), Paul “P.J.” Alvarado (the late Sieglinde Alvarado), Jason Alvarado, Sr. (Naomi) and Joshua Alvarado (Thuong); mother of his children, Yolanda Castaneda Alvarado and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
Honorary pallbearers will be Troy “T.J.” Warren, Jr., Martin Alvarado, Paul “P.J. Alvarado, Joseph Alvarado, III, Marty Alvarado, Jr., Jerry Alvarado, Israel Carrera, Jeremy Alvarado, and Buzz Wesley. He also shared a special bond with Chase Busby, Rodney Rodefeld, and David Zamora.
Special Thanks to the staff at Bayou Pines Care Center and UTMB League City for their compassionate care.
Visitation will be held at Carnes Funeral Home in Texas City on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Stephanie Hughes officiating. A graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date.
The family asks that no food be brought to the service, as light refreshments will be served.

Semper Fi