In Memoriam: Pedro D. Matta, Veteran and Community Advocate

News Summary

Pedro D. Matta, a beloved veteran and family man, passed away at the age of 61. Known for his commitment to service and community healthcare, he leaves behind a loving family. His warm spirit and dedication to helping others will be missed. A visitation and funeral mass is scheduled to honor his legacy.

Pecos, Texas – Pedro D. Matta, a cherished veteran and devoted family man, passed away on June 9, 2025, at the age of 61. Known affectionately to his family and friends as Pete, Peter, and Peter Gun, Matta leaves behind a legacy of service, warmth, and commitment to his loved ones.

Born on July 22, 1963, in Pecos to Victoria and Everisto Matta, he dedicated his early years to his family and country. Matta proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1982 to 1985, achieving the rank of Private First Class. He continued his dedication to service in the Reserves until 1988, earning several accolades during his time in the military, including a rifle marksman badge, a sea service deployment ribbon, and a letter of commendation.

After his honorable service, Matta pursued a career in healthcare, obtaining a Medical Assistant degree. He exhibited his compassion and dedication to the community by serving in this capacity for 25 years with Dr. Dolores Corpuz and Dr. Rufino Talatala. Matta’s commitment to helping others reflected his kind-hearted nature.

Personal Interests and Family Life

Matta was a passionate fan of the Dallas Cowboys, a loyalty he maintained throughout his life. Beyond sports, he enjoyed outdoor activities such as walking, gardening—particularly nurturing the lawn of his parents’ home, barbecuing, and fishing. A highlight of his year was attending the State Fair with his brother Gilbert.

Christmas was another time of joy for Matta, who loved to celebrate the season by starting festivities in mid-November. Family meant everything to him, and he expressed his love through thoughtful messages, gatherings, and traditional recipes like menudo and tamales.

Family and Community Impact

Pedro Matta was devoted to his family, particularly to his parents, Victoria and Everisto, ensuring he was always there to support them. His passing leaves a significant void, as he is survived by his son, Aldo Matta; his granddaughter, Briella Matta; and his beloved parents. Matta was not only a dutiful son and father but also a supportive brother to his numerous siblings and a beloved uncle to many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Matta is preceded in death by several family members, including his grandparents and a brother-in-law. His warm smile and ability to make others feel welcome will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation and Funeral Arrangements

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation scheduled for June 23, 2025, at Calvary Hill Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., concluding with a rosary at 5:30 p.m. A funeral mass will be held the following day, June 24, 2025, at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m. Matta will be laid to rest with military honors at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

In Memory

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Pedro D. Matta’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that reflects his commitment to caring for those in need. The legacy of service, love, and warmth that he leaves behind will be honored and remembered by his family and community.

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Additional Resources

• Dignity Memorial: Pedro Matta Obituary
• Wikipedia: Pecos, Texas
• WFAA: Dallas Priest Arrested
• Encyclopedia Britannica: United States Marine Corps
• Dallas Morning News: James Jackson Obituary