Gilbert Herrera

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Gilbert’s life was a testament to unwavering faith, compassion, and dedication—a journey defined by his selfless devotion to his family, his community, and his calling.

With great love and heavy hearts, we remember the life of Gilbert Herrera, who was born on January 22, 1947, to Julio & Cruz Herrera in Lubbock, Texas, and who peacefully departed this world in the same city he called home on July 1, 2026.

Gilbert’s life was a testament to unwavering faith, compassion, and dedication—a journey defined by his selfless devotion to his family, his community, and his calling. From his earliest days in Lubbock, Gilbert found purpose in uplifting those around him, profoundly shaping lives both near and far.

A cherished family man, Gilbert married the love of his life, Gloria Jean Peña, on June 4, 1980, in their beloved Lubbock. Together, they built a home anchored in love and guided by faith, inspiring those blessed to know them. Gloria remains his steadfast partner, carrying forward the values they nurtured over decades.

Gilbert’s spirit endures in the hearts of his devoted children: his sons, Gilbert Torres, Jerry Herrera (Margarite), Danny Joe Herrera (Ruby), Ricky Gilbert Herrera (Bethany), Johnny Herrera, and his daughters, Tammy Hernandez, Corina Herrera Chavira (David), Victoria Herrera and Ayriss Herrera. Gilbert cherished each moment shared with his children, offering wisdom, kindness, and the profound gift of his steady presence as a father and mentor.

His family grew strong in the love of God, an inheritance rooted in Gilbert’s own convictions. He was a man who led by example, instilling the love of God and ministry within every member of his family—a legacy of spiritual strength and community service that continues to inspire.

Gilbert’s extraordinary commitment to serving others was evident throughout his distinguished career. For many years, he served as a Chaplain for The Lubbock County Sheriff’s Department and University Medical Center, offering comfort and solace to countless people in times of need. In 1986, he answered a greater call, launching his Evangelist Ministry, which he pursued tirelessly until his last days. Through sermons, prayers, and acts of compassion, Gilbert became a beacon of hope for many, spreading love and faith wherever he went.

Among his proudest accomplishments was serving as President of the State Brown Berets, a role in which he advocated with strength and conviction for those whose voices needed to be heard. Additionally, Gilbert’s passion for ministry reached new heights when he formed the Gilbert Herrera Ministry, sponsored by the First Baptist Church of Lubbock. Through his leadership, Gilbert touched lives and offered guidance to countless souls.

Gilbert’s influence and love were shaped by those who walked before him, including his beloved parents and siblings, Eva Sepeda, Julio Herrera Jr., and Isabel Childress, who preceded him in death. Their memory remained ever-present in his heart, guiding him through each season of his remarkable life.

The Herrera family invites all who knew Gilbert to pay their respects during a viewing at Broadway Funeral Directors, 1901 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401, on July 9, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Family and friends are especially welcome during visitation hours from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service honoring Gilbert’s life and legacy will be held on July 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM at First Baptist Church Lubbock with Pastor Jason Burden officiating. Burial will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Park under the direction of Broadway Funeral Directors.