Andrew Saldana

Andrew Ray Saldana, a beacon of warmth and spirit, was born on March 1, 2002, in Lubbock, Texas, and left this world too soon on December 12, 2024, in Tahoka, Texas. At the tender age of 22, he had already established a profound legacy, not only in his work but in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

A dedicated correctional officer at the Dalby Unit in Post, Texas, Andrew embodied the essence of hard work and commitment. His colleagues admired him for his unwavering nature and willingness to lend a helping hand, traits that defined both his professional and personal life. Andrew graduated from Tahoka High School, Class of 2020, and spent one year furthering his education at Victoria College, a testament to his ambition and desire for growth.

Beyond his commendable career, Andrew was a man of many interests. His love for basketball and football demonstrated his competitive spirit, while his passion for video games, music, and dancing with his boys highlighted his vibrant soul. An adventurous heart, he thrived in the great outdoors, often found riding dirt bikes, 4-wheelers, and delighting in the thrill of mudding. He found joy in creating unforgettable memories, especially with his beloved children.

Andrew was a proud father—his sons, Alijah Saldana of Lubbock and Zachariah Saldana of Sudan, were his proudest accomplishments. The joy he found in their company was unparalleled; they spent countless hours playing outside, riding dirt bikes, capturing cherished moments in photographs, and indulging in simple pleasures that brought laughter and love into their lives.

His spirit will be profoundly missed by those he leaves behind. His loving parents, Bibian Saldana, Jr. and Debbie Saldana, and his devoted siblings—Alexia, Eric, Marcos (and Xenia), along with Zaiden Perez—will forever remember him as the best son and brother. He took immense pride in his role as a family man, and his dedication to his loved ones was evident in everything he did. Andrew’s joy was further expanded by the sweet laughter of his nieces and nephews, Eleah, Azalea, Elyanna, Haisley, Eli Duran, and Kassius Ramos, who adored their Uncle Andrew.

In his journey through life, he was embraced by a loving family that will continue to honor his memory. His maternal grandparents, Oscar and Betty Garcia of Tahoka, alongside his paternal grandparents, Delores and Primitivo Camacho of Slaton, often basked in the warmth of Andrew’s radiant spirit. While he leaves behind a core of living loved ones, his legacy is intertwined with those who have preceded him—the great-grandparents, Domingo Riojas, Sr., Salome and Jesus Saldana; grandfather, Bibian Saldana, Sr.; and uncle, Martin Saldana.

The void left by Andrew’s departure is immeasurable, yet it’s filled with the smiles he created and the love he shared. His impact on the lives of so many is a poignant reminder of the indelible mark he left in his brief time on earth. As we gather to honor his life, we shall remember a great man whose kindness and warmth will echo in our hearts forever.

Visitation will take place on December 18, 2024, from 9:00 AM at the Combest Family Funeral Home in Tahoka, followed by a Rosary at 6:00 PM. A Mass to celebrate Andrew's life will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church on December 19, 2024, at 2:30 PM, after which he will be laid to rest at Nevels Memorial Cemetery. As we bid farewell to Andrew Ray Saldana, let us carry forward the joy he brought into our lives and honor his memory with every smile we share and every act of kindness we extend to others.