Manuel F. “Meme” Campos, a loving brother, cherished uncle, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by the warmth of his family and friends. Born on January 13, 1942, in Big Wells, Texas, Manuel lived a remarkable life marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep love for those around him.
A proud Air Force veteran, Manuel served his country with honor and dedication. He later worked and retired from J.I. Case Company in Rockford, Illinois, he embraced a life rich with family, friendship, and community. He would often help others by offering a warm meal or bed, he truly gave from his heart. He was a simple man with a profound love for fishing, traveling, and cheering on his beloved Redskins football team. “Meme” was known for his warm heart and the personal nicknames he lovingly crafted for each of his nieces and nephews.
Manuel found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often spending his afternoons at the community center in Devine, where he relished in people-watching and catching up on the news over a newspaper. His welcoming spirit drew friends and acquaintances alike, who would often stop to share a kind word or a hearty laugh.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Agapito and Maria Elena Campos, along with his siblings Soyla Campos Martinez, Valdemar Campos, and Ramon Campos. Left to honor his memory are his loving sons, Jimmy and Randy Kristek; sisters, Odelia Torres and Bertha Garcia, brother-in-law, Macedonio Martinez; as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were blessed to know his gentle spirit.
Pallbearers: Vincent Campos, Darrell Torres, Jonathan Campos, Rene Campos, Reyes David Leal, David Martinez, John Martinez, Mace Martinez.
Honorary Pallbearers: Jimmy and Randy Kristek.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM with a Rosary recited at 7:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine. Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with interment to follow in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.
In honoring Manuel’s life, we reflect on a man who embodied love and care for others, and whose legacy will continue to inspire those he left behind. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered.
Card of Thanks
Thank you to everyone for the kind words, prayers, visitations, food, flowers, and all of the help. Thank you to each and every one of you on behalf of our beloved brother Manuel (Meme) Campos.
Sincerely, OdeliaTorres and Bertha Garcia and family