Richard "Popo" Alvarado, Sr.

Richard "Popo" Alvarado, Sr., 78, of Texas City, passed away on March 9, 2026, at UTMB Hospital in League City, Texas. Born in Galveston on October 3, 1947, to Oralia and Joseph Alvarado, Sr., he was a proud United States Marine who served his country during the Vietnam War. He carried the values of honor, discipline, and commitment throughout his life. After suffering a stroke in 2016, he resided at Bayou Pines Care Center in La Marque.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Richard later became a devoted member of St. John's United Methodist Church in Texas City, where he found deep enjoyment in attending services. He took great pleasure in cooking barbecue, sharing time with family and friends, and mentoring others with his wisdom and life lessons. Known for his lively sense of humor, he loved telling jokes and playing pranks. A passionate music lover, he enjoyed everything from 2Pac and Tejano to Hank Williams. Above all, he was a dedicated and hardworking man who lived a life marked by service, loyalty, and laughter.

He shared a particularly close and cherished bond with his grandson Troy "T.J." Warren, Jr., with whom he spent many joyful hours laughing, talking, and simply being together. He was proud of all three of his grandchildren and loved them deeply.

Richard was preceded in death by his son, Richard Alvarado, Jr.; his parents and grandparents; his brother, Joseph Alvarado, Jr.; and his nephew, Larry Keith. He is survived by his daughter, Mechelle Alvarado (Juan Bahena); bonus daughter, Vicky Garcia (Jessica Rincon); grandchildren, Troy "T.J." Warren, Jr., Courtney Bahena, and Megan Bahena; his sisters, Mary Diaz (Noe), Olivia Garza (Gilbert), Melissa Apolinar, Sabrina Simmons, Melinda Boothe (Jimmy), Donna Alvarado, and Angela Bertrand; his brothers, Martin Alvarado, Sr. (Sandra), Paul "P.J." Alvarado (the late Sieglinde Alvarado), Jason Alvarado, Sr. (Naomi), and Joshua Alvarado (Thuong); the mother of his children, Yolanda Castaneda Alvarado; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He also shared special bonds with Chase Busby, Rodney Rodefeld, and David Zamora.