Refugio "Pete" Castillo Barrientez, III

Refugio Castillo Barrientez, III, a lifelong resident of Palestine, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, the 26th day of February 2025, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 48.  Best known to his family and friends as “Pete” was born on the 23rd day of October 1976 to parents Refugio Guerrero Barrientez, Jr. and Consuelo Castillo Villalobos.  

Pete is survived by his loving wife, Misty Barrientez; mother, Consuelo Villalobos; daughter, Addyson Barrientez; son, Darion Barrientez; sisters, Jessica Landers and husband Walter, and Sandra Barrientez; brothers, Jorge Castillo and wife Tonia, Jose Barrientez and wife Johanna, and Kevin Barrientez.  Pete also leaves behind other family members and a multitude of friends.  He is preceded in death by his father Refugio Guerrero Barrientez, Jr.

Pete was a man of profound faith and commitment, who associated with the Messianic Torah Observant Israel. Known for his vast intelligence, Pete possessed a mountain of knowledge about the Bible, which he shared with those around him. He was a good listener, always offering a sympathetic ear and sound advice to those in need. His caring and compassionate nature made him a confidant and friend to many.  His dedication to his beliefs was matched only by his passion for education.  Pete was a graduate of Palestine High School, and he earned his associate's degree from Trinity Valley Community College.

A master in the kitchen, Pete, loved nothing more than cooking and feeding people, especially his family. His culinary skills were a vehicle for his generosity, and he took great joy in bringing people together around a meal. Pete's ability to make friends was unparalleled; he never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone he met.  His love for children was evident to all. He had a special way of connecting with the younger generation, guiding them with patience and kindness. His legacy is one of love and service, and his impact on the lives of those around him is immeasurable and will be cherished forever.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from six o’clock until eight o’clock in the evening on Thursday, the 6th day of March 2025 at Rhone Funeral Home.

A celebration of life service will begin at one o’clock in the afternoon on Friday, the 7th day of March 2025 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Bro. Seth Green officiating the service.  Interment will follow in Palestine City Cemetery.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Marcus Jones, Micheal Castillo, Kevin Barrientez, Jose Carrizales, Jose Barrientez, Jorge Castillo, and Pedro Carrizales.

Funeral services for Refugio Castillo Barrientez, III are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.

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