H.R. No. 96
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, A life lived with joy and purpose drew to a close
with the passing of Gilbert J. Riojas III of Corpus Christi on
December 13, 2024, at the age of 47; and
WHEREAS, Gilly Riojas was born on May 13, 1977, to Tina and
Gilbert Riojas, and he grew up with three younger sisters, Jamie,
Caitlin, and Ryan; he excelled as a football player at Austin High
School, and following his graduation in 1996, he continued in his
parents' and grandparents' footsteps by enrolling at Texas A&M
University, where he made many lifelong friends; and
WHEREAS, Over the course of a successful career, Mr. Riojas
worked as general manager for La Babia Cattle Company, which
operates ranches in Mexico and South Texas; an admired leader, he
left an indelible mark on the agricultural industry, mentoring many
young professionals and representing the Texas Beef Council as a
director for the Federation of State Beef Councils; in addition, he
lent his expertise to the Texas Cattle Feeders Association and the
Beef Promotion and Research Council of Texas, and he served as
director of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association;
and
WHEREAS, On December 4, 2004, Mr. Riojas wed the love of his
life, the former Andrea Martinka, and the couple enjoyed a
rewarding marriage that spanned 20 years; his life was further
enriched by the close bond he shared with their daughter, Rylynn,
and he always made time for her activities, including sports and
school events; in all his endeavors, he drew strength from his
Catholic faith; and
WHEREAS, Beloved for his kindness, generosity, and exuberant
personality, Gilly Riojas leaves behind numerous friends and loved
ones whose lives are far richer for having known him, and he will
always hold a treasured place in their hearts; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Gilbert J. Riojas
III and extend heartfelt condolences to the members of his family:
to his wife, Andrea Martinka Riojas; to his daughter, Rylynn Sara
Riojas; to his parents, Bettina Lynn McSpadden and Gilbert J.
Riojas Jr.; to his sisters, Jamie Riojas, Caitlin Riojas and her
spouse, Tyler Canon, and Ryan Riojas; to his nephews and nieces,
Jackson, Blue, and Maddie Hall and Penny Canon; to his
grandparents, Ouida and Tom Schliesing; and to his other relatives
and many friends; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Gilly
Riojas.
Lambert
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 96 was unanimously adopted by a rising
vote of the House on March 6, 2025.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House