Carlos Soto III

Sergeant first class Carlos Soto III, 70, of New Braunfels, Texas, entered eternal peace on May 14, 2026 at home surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 29, 1956, in Seguin, Texas to Carlos Soto Jr. and Maria Garza, Carlos lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and country.

After high school Carlos proudly served in the United States Army for 21 years, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class. His military career consisted of numerous tours and achievements including 3 tours to Germany, Korea where he served as a military police officer and one tour to Saudi Arabia. He proudly served as a platoon sergeant in Operation Desert Storm Desert Shield where he earned the Kuwait Liberation Medal. His service was a testament to his unwavering commitment and discipline, he took great pride in taking all his men and bringing them all back… he truly believed in the saying “No man left behind”. He truly embodying the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Throughout his military career, he achieved numerous achievements and medals demonstrated unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers and to the nation he proudly served. His service reflected a deep sense of responsibility and patriotism that remained with him throughout his life. His time in the Army shaped much of his life and left an indelible mark on those who served alongside him.

After retirement from the United States Army in 1995, he continued his career in construction traveling to California, Las Vegas and Florida with the love of his life by his side. When he decided to settle down, he went to work at JBSA at Canyon Lake where he spent 16 years until retiring, he was known for his strength of character, generous spirit, and devotion to those he loved. He touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, and steadfast presence. His legacy of service, perseverance, and love will continue to inspire family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A man of deep faith, Carlos was a devoted Catholic who found strength and solace in his beliefs. He was known for his hardworking nature and boundless dedication to his family and friends. Carlos had a heart of gold and loved fiercely and deeply—a sentiment that resonated with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Carlos found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved going for drives with his daughter and eating at Acapulco after appointments, he couldn’t get enough of his favorite cheese enchiladas. He enjoyed watching westerns, WWE wrestling and game shows while snacking on popsicle. Above all else, he cherished the title of Popo and spending time with his grandchildren who were his pride and joy for which there was never a dull moment forever being the comedian they knew him to be. No matter what the situation was about he always remained positive and found humor in the process and never let anything get him down. The everyday phone calls to sending memes and jokes to his daughter and grandchildren are going to be missed, but we find comfort in knowing he has been made whole again and reunited with his corazón. The many memories that were made will be treasured forever.

He leaves his loving memories to be forever cherished by his daughter JoAnn Soto and boyfriend Neil, step children Jimmie Menchaca Jr., Andrew Menchaca, Patricia and her husband Adrian Garza Sr., Roxanne and her husband Daniel Bonilla Jr., 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Brothers Albert Soto and wife Jackie; Jesse Soto and wife Georgia; and Juan Soto and wife Maria; and aunt, Corina Polanco. Carlos was predeceased by his parents; baby brother Arthur; infant son Joel; wife Linda Soto; and sister MaryAnn Soto.

Carlos’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and selflessness. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May his life serve as an inspiration to all who were touched by his kindness humor faith and friendship.

Pallbearears are Noah Martinez, Xavian Menchaca, Jimmie Menchaca Jr., Andrew Menchaca, Adrian Garza Sr., and Daniel Bonilla Jr.

Rest in peace daddy, your mission is complete. You will be deeply missed but never ever forgotten.

Job well done sir… job well done.