Antonio "Tony" Solano

Antonio “Tony” Solano, 85, went to be with our Lord on Monday, July 13, 2026.

Tony was born in San Antonio, Texas, on May 10, 1941, Mother’s Day, a special gift to his beloved parents, the late Juanita Ibarra Solano and Simon Solano Sr.

Affectionately known as “Tony” by his family and friends, he was truly a jack of all trades. There wasn’t a job he wouldn’t tackle or a person he wouldn’t help. His generous spirit and willingness to lend a hand were among the many qualities that made him so loved.

Tony had a passion for restoring classic automobiles. One of his proudest accomplishments was restoring a beautiful 1954 Chevrolet truck, a labor of love that he later had to sell. Though the truck was gone, the memories and pride he took in bringing it back to life remained with him.

Music was deeply rooted in Tony’s life. Coming from a family of talented musicians, he learned to play the guitar and cherished every opportunity to gather with loved ones. Family celebrations were often filled with the sounds of guitars, singing, and laughter as everyone came together for what felt like their own live concert.

A man of deep faith, Tony was a devoted Catholic with a special devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe. He faithfully served as a Guadalupano at St. Philip of Jesus Catholic Church and dedicated more than 25 years as choir director for the Spanish 10:00 a.m. Mass. Through his ministry, he inspired countless parishioners and shared his love of God through music and service.

Tony was also known as the family’s “payaso”—the clown who never took life too seriously. He had a remarkable sense of humor and an infectious laugh that could brighten any room. He loved making others smile, and even during his final days, he continued to joke with his nurses and doctors, bringing joy to those caring for him.

While Tony was certainly a character, those who knew him best will remember him most for his caring, generous, and kind heart. His unwavering faith, joyful spirit, and selfless love for others leave behind a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Tony is reunited in Heaven with his beloved parents, Juanita Ibarra Solano and Simon Solano Sr.; wife, Maria Inez Solano; son, Tony Adam Solano; sister, Janie DeLeon; brothers, Margarito Solano, Simon Solano Jr..

He will be deeply missed by his children, Leonard Solano, Maria Solano and Roy Solano; 5 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild, sisters, Maggie Solano Smith, Nora Esquivel, Vely Solano and Carmen Solano Morey; brothers, Jesse Solano and George Solano and friends, parish community, and all whose lives he touched.

May he rest in the peace of Christ, embraced by the loving arms of Our Lord and Our Lady of Guadalupe.