Pastor Antonio DeLeon

In Loving Memory of Pastor Antonio DeLeon

September 15, 1953 – May 22, 2025

Pastor Antonio DeLeon, 71 of Hartley, and a devoted servant of God, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all, went to be with our Lord and Savior on May 22, 2025, in Amarillo, Texas. He was 71 years old. Born on September 15, 1953, in Monterrey, Mexico, Antonio lived a life filled with faith, love, and unwavering dedication to others. Pastor DeLeon didn't just preach the word of God, he lived it. He was a true servant of the Lord, known for his compassion, humility, and faith. To know him was to feel seen, valued, and loved. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

Antonio married the love of his life, Petra Aldape, on June 10, 1975, in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Their marriage was a testament to true love and partnership, and he often said he had two great loves in his life: God and his wife, Petra. Antonio’s greatest joy was making Petra happy, and he cherished every moment spent with her. Their love was visible to all who knew them: faithful, selfless, and full of warmth.

Pastor DeLeon was a lifelong resident of Hartley, where his faith and leadership became the cornerstone of his community. He was a dedicated member of NewLife Church in Dalhart. Throughout his pastoral career, he helped start and lead several churches, including Templo Elim in Dumas, Rios De Agua Viva and One Faith in Dalhart, and his most recent mission was in Casa de Dios Puerta del Cielo in Flatonia, Texas.

His life was a reflection of service, always with a smile, and always ready to help. A legacy that has already been passed down to his children. Pastor DeLeon was a man of his word, known for preaching the gospel with passion, grilling and cooking with love, and offering kindness to anyone in need. Whether it was making pancakes for his granddaughters when they had a tough day or lending a hand to a stranger, Antonio lived to serve and uplift others.

He was also a lover of simple joys: fishing, singing, caring for his animals, and spending time with his family. His laugh filled rooms, and his presence brought peace. He found purpose in being a father and grandfather, and he took pride in raising a family grounded in faith and love.

Pastor Antonio DeLeon is survived by his cherished wife, Petra of the home; their children, Anna Gonzalez and husband Pepe of Dalhart, Jacob DeLeon and wife Savana also of Dalhart, and Genaro “Shorty” DeLeon and wife Stephanie of Flatonia, Texas. He was a proud grandfather to Mireya and Yareli Gonzalez, Junior and Elias DeLeon, Arelli Byrd, Abel and Alonzo DeLeon, and great-grandfather to two precious great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his siblings, Maria de Jesus Guadalupe, Maria de a Luz, Jose Maria, Gloria Bertha, Evangelina, and Maria Alicia, Amalia.

He was preceded in death by his father, Abel DeLeon Moya, his mother, Dionicia Cantu Gomez, one sister, Maria de Jesus, and one brother, Abel Alberto.

Pastor DeLeon leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and unimaginable kindness. He will be deeply missed by his family, his church community, and all who were blessed to know him. His smile, his prayers, and his servant’s heart will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, May 26, 2025, at New Life Church, with Pastor Terry Stegall officiating. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. On Sunday, Friends and loved ones are welcome to pay their respects as Pastor DeLeon will lie in state from 1-7:00 PM at the church.

Dalhart Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve The DeLeon family during this most difficult time.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23