Daniel "Big D" Ruiz's Obituary
Daniel “Big D” G. Ruiz March 10, 1971 – November 23, 2025
Daniel “Big D” G. Ruiz, 54, of Uvalde, Texas, passed away on November 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on March 10, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, and raised in Uvalde, Daniel lived a life defined by generosity, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
He was the son of the Feliciano and Narcisa Ruiz. Daniel is survived by his beloved wife, Ana Belia Orona Ruiz, with whom he built a life filled with love, family, and shared purpose.
A proud and dedicated father, Daniel leaves behind his children: Briana Joy Ruiz; Daniel B. Ruiz Jr. and wife Michelle Ruiz; Kristine Danielle Ruiz and partner Justin Mendoza; and Joaquin Feliciano Ruiz, all of Uvalde. He was also a loving pet parent to his cherished furbabies, Kika and Choncha.
Daniel was a devoted grandfather whose heart belonged completely to his grandchildren: John Patrick Ruiz Garza, Daniel Feliciano Ruiz Garza, Jessica Faith Ruiz Garza, Roberto Noel Ruiz Garza, Elijah Mateo Mendoza, and Eliana Alicia Mendoza. Known as the “best grandpa ever,” he embraced his role with joy, patience, and immeasurable pride.
He is also survived by his mother Narcisa Ruiz and his siblings; Maria Ruiz Flores and husband Jesus of Uvalde, Silbia Arredondo and husband Roberto of Crystal City, Rosaura Sonora and husband Gumercindo of Uvalde, Leticia Arizmendi and husband Arnulfo of Uvalde, Jose Ruiz and wife San Juana of Waller, TX, Gonzalo Ruiz of Uvalde, Ricardo Ruiz and wife Maria of Uvalde and numerus nieces and nephews.
Daniel worked throughout South Texas as an agricultural field worker before becoming a skilled auto/diesel mechanic and later an auto tech instructor at Southwest Texas College. Whether in the fields, under the hood, or in the classroom, he was admired for his knowledge, steady work ethic, and willingness to help anyone in need. Proudly known as a “Certified Hustler,” Daniel tackled every task with dedication and heart.
Outside of work, Daniel lived a life filled with joy and passion. He was a grill master and a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, well-known for cooking at countless community benefits and events. He loved joining BBQ cook-offs with family and friends, fishing with his sons, and dancing—always the first on the dance floor and the last to leave. Daniel also spent many years giving back as a youth soccer and baseball coach, shaping young athletes with patience, encouragement, and pride.
Raised in the Catholic faith, Daniel never hesitated to assist churches of all denominations when they needed a helping hand.
He was preceded in death by his father, Feliciano Ruiz; his nephew, Ricardo (Ricky) Ruiz Jr.; and his great niece, Eliahna Amyah Garcia.
A Visitation will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025 and Sunday, November 30, 2025 from 12:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home, Chapel of Serenity, a Rosary will take place at 7:00 P.M. both days. A Mass of Christian Burial is set for 10:00 A.M, Monday, December 1, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church., 408 Fort Clark Rd.
Interment to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.
Daniel “Big D” Ruiz will be remembered for his enormous heart, his generosity, his laughter, and his unshakeable love for family and community. His legacy lives on in every life he touched.
Honorary pallbearer: God Daughter Cindy Ruiz
His God Sons will be his Pallbearers; Gumercindo Sonora III, Kenneth Sonora, Jesse Rodriguez, Juan Guerrero, Eric Benavides, Jonathan Rodriguez.
Hillcrest Memorial, https://www.hillcrestmemorialfuneralhome.com
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