Roy Ramiro Barrera Sr., a distinguished American politician and attorney, passed away peacefully in his sleep in San Antonio, Texas, on March 15, 2026, at the age of 99. Born Raul Ramiro Barrera on January 30, 1927, in San Antonio, his life was marked by a profound commitment to public service, legal excellence, and community advocacy. His journey from a young man in Texas to a prominent figure in state politics left an indelible mark on the legal and political landscape of Texas.

Barrera's early life saw him achieve Eagle Scout status in Boy Scout Troop 52 in 1938. In high school, he played clarinet in the band, was captain of ROTC, and captain of the rifle team, which took second place in a national shooting competition. After graduating from what is now Fox Tech High School in 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the 6th Infantry in the Philippines during World War II. Following the atomic bombings of Japan, his unit was transferred to Korea, where he served in a unit tasked with informing Japanese civilians that the war was over and repatriating them. During his service in Korea, a truck accident resulted in the loss of his left ring finger when his high school ring snagged on a nail, an injury that ended his clarinet playing but led him to learn the trumpet. Upon his return, he initially intended to become a mechanic, but his mother persuaded him to use the GI Bill to attend law school, recognizing his natural talent for speaking. He met his high school sweetheart, Maria Del Carmen Zendejas, at San Antonio Vocational and Technical School, and they married in 1948. He earned his Juris Doctor from St. Mary's University Law School in 1951.

Immediately after law school, Barrera began his career as an investigator for the Bexar County District Attorney's office, quickly rising to become the chief prosecutor. His dedication to justice was evident in his work, and in 1957, he co-founded the esteemed Nicholas & Barrera law firm with Anthony Nicholas, a partnership that would endure for over half a century and become one of the longest-operating law firms in Texas. That same year, he demonstrated his legal prowess by arguing before the U.S. Supreme Court in the significant case of Alcorta v. Texas.

Barrera's commitment to public service extended beyond the courtroom. In 1953, he served as Edgewood ISD's board president. In 1968, he was appointed Texas Secretary of State by Governor John Connally, a historic moment as he became the first Hispanic man to hold this prestigious position, serving until 1969. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in state governance, overseeing various administrative duties and representing Texas at significant events like HemisFair '68. He also served as an Assistant Government Appeals Agent by appointment under the Lyndon B. Johnson administration.

Beyond his professional achievements, Roy R. Barrera Sr. was a passionate advocate for his community and the legal profession. He was known for his efforts in integrating a local San Antonio theater in his youth, a testament to his lifelong commitment to equality. In 1973, he made history again as the first Hispanic President of the San Antonio Bar Association. He was a member of the first class of attorneys certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and maintained this certification for over 50 years. Barrera continued to try criminal jury trials well into his nineties, even "objecting" to the dismissal of a murder case he had hoped to try on his 90th birthday. His legal practice at Nicholas & Barrera encompassed a wide range of areas, including Criminal Law, Family Law, Estate Planning, Real Estate Law, Personal Injury – Defense, Personal Injury – Plaintiff, and Products Liability Law. He was a State Bar of Texas Foundation Fellow until his death.

Lawyers and judges across San Antonio remembered him as a formidable trial lawyer, mentor, and public servant whose influence shaped generations of attorneys. Patricia Roberts, Dean of St. Mary's University School of Law, stated that Barrera was "the embodiment of everything St. Mary's University School of Law stands for." U.S. District Judge Fred Biery described Barrera's life as "Truly a legendary and heroic life," while Charles A. Gonzalez, a San Antonio attorney and former congressman, called him "a towering figure in the legal community" and "a giant." The San Antonio Bar Association recognized him as a "trailblazer, a gentleman and a beloved member of our legal family." He was honored as a 'Texas Legal Legend' by St. Mary's University and received the 2020 Reynaldo G. Garza Lifetime Achievement Award from the State Bar of Texas. The San Antonio Express-News published an article titled "'A legal legend': Roy Barrera Sr. was first Hispanic to lead San Antonio Bar Association" following his death, and KENS5.com also published an article titled "Former Texas Secretary of State Roy Ramiro Barrera Sr. dies." The Barrera Library at St. Mary's University and his family's continuing ties to the university reflect an enduring legacy.

Barrera's legacy extends through his family, many of whom followed in his footsteps into the legal profession, continuing his tradition of service and justice. He was a beloved patriarch, mentor, and a true Texas legend whose influence will be felt for generations. His wife of 67 years, Maria Del Carmen Zendejas Barrera, known as Carmen, died in 2015. He is survived by his five children, Yolanda, Roy Jr., Gilbert, Carmen Alice, and Bobby, as well as 12 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his remarkable legacy. His life was a testament to hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the power of the law to effect positive change. Roy R. Barrera Sr. will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking political and legal career but also for his profound impact on civil rights and his dedication to fostering opportunities for future generations. His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Texas and the nation will continue to inspire.