Derle Cortez Cuellar, 80, of Cuero passed away Monday, April 20, 2026. He was born September 28, 1945 in Cuero to Daniel E. and Manuela Cortez Cuellar. He met his lifelong partner, Martha Garibay at the age of 16. They got married on May 10, 1963 and would have celebrated 63 years of marriage this year.

Derle proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 -1970. He enjoyed fishing and playing tennis and was a Commander of the Royal Rangers for 45 years. He was co-pastor at The Good Shepherd church for 7 years as well as the youth counselor.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Martha; daughter, Lisa Cardenas (Ruben); son, Jason Cuellar (Lorraine); sister, Ruth Montoya; brother, Daniel E. Cuellar; grandchildren, Ruben Brady Cardenas, Donovan Cardenas, MaKayla Cardenas, Savannah Cuellar, Johnathan Cuellar and Jacob Cuellar and great-grandchildren, Declan Cardenas and Sienna Mann.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026, 9:00 AM at The Good Shepherd Church. Funeral Services will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Adolf B. Cortinas Jr. officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Ruben Garcia, Steven Guerra, Armando Diaz, David Fernandez and Nathan Jimenez.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.