Leroy Nieto, Sr.

Leroy Nieto, Sr. beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on January 4, 2025.

Born on October 2, 1947, in Moulton, Texas, Leroy was the son of Vive and Emma (Perez) Nieto. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He grew up in the small town he loved, and it remained close to his heart throughout his life. On December 10, 1965, Leroy married Cleo Ramirez, with whom he shared a beautiful and loving partnership for 59 years. Together, they raised three children and were blessed with four grandchildren.

Leroy worked for Smith Farms and Cal-Maine for his entire career of 39 years, where he retired after dedicating himself to the company. Outside of his career, Leroy enjoyed a simple, fulfilling life filled with the things he cherished most—hunting, fishing, and spending time at the family farm. His connection to the land was deep, and the farm provided him with peace and happiness. Leroy was a devoted family man whose life was centered around his greatest joys: his grandchildren. To him, they were his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them, offering love, guidance, and laughter. Known for never meeting a stranger, Leroy effortlessly turned every encounter into a lasting connection, building many lifelong friendships along the way.

Leroy’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Cleo; their three children, Leroy Jr, Henry Nieto (Kelli) and Teresa Goedrich (Stuart); and four grandchildren, Natalie and Kevin Nieto, Caleb and Ella Goedrich. He is proceeded in death by his parents Vive and Emma Nieto, son Leroy Nieto Jr., brother Daniel Nieto, sisters Flora Nieto and Maria Nieto. He is also survived by his sister Shelia Garza, many friends and extended family who will remember him for his warm heart, generosity, and quiet strength.

Pallbearers are Caleb Goedrich, Ella Goedrich, Kevin Nieto, Natalie Nieto, Blake Nieto, and Sammy Nieto.

Visitation for Leroy will be held at Smith Funeral Home in Moulton, TX, on Tuesday, January 7th from 4 pm – 6 pm followed by a rosary. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, January 8th at 10 am, officiated by Father Gabriel Maison. 

Leroy will be missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.