Dante Quintanilla Montoya

Dante Quintanilla Montoya, age 51, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Born on June 7, 1974, in San Antonio, he was the beloved son of the late Diana Quintanilla Montoya and Thomas Montoya.

Dante was a proud graduate of East Central High School, Class of 1992, and went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University–Kingsville. His lifelong love of football and mentorship led him to a fulfilling career as Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator at South San Antonio High School. In 2025, he was honored as Coach of the Year—a testament to his dedication, leadership, and the positive impact he had on countless students.

Coach Montoya’s influence extended far beyond the field. He was passionate about helping his players build bright futures, often guiding them through the college application process or other life adventures. His commitment to his students’ success was matched only by his devotion to his family.

When not coaching, Dante could be found surrounded by his loved ones—BBQing as the family’s pitmaster, or enjoying the outdoors hunting and fishing. His laughter, smile, and larger-than-life presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Leslie Montoya; his children, Jacob Thomas Montoya and Danielle Elisabeth Montoya; his brother, Tommy (Thomas) Montoya, wife Michelle and daughter Grace; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Richard and Kathleen Lovering; brother-in-law, sister-in-law Jeff and Michelle and nephews Alex and Ben; along with numerous beloved cousins relatives, friends, students, and fellow coaches who were blessed to have known him.

Dante’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched—on and off the field.