Ruben Lopez, 74, of Vinton, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born and raised in Port Arthur, Texas, Ruben later laid down roots in Vinton, where he spent the remainder of his life. He was a loud and proud, yet steady soul whose greatest pride came from his family, his faith and the simple joys of everyday life.

Ruben was a perpetual learner—never perfect, but always striving to be better. In his crowning years, he grew in wisdom, humility, and grace, always working to improve himself. He took great pride in doing things with his own two hands, never afraid to try, fail, and try again. His sense of humor never faltered and became one of his most cherished traits. He could make anyone laugh, and everyone was welcome to joke and sit with him—unless the Astros were playing, in which case you'd better take a seat and wait for a commercial break.

His greatest joys were exploring life through his relationship with God and spending time with his loving and devoted wife of 27 years, all while watching his children grow into parents themselves—passing down not only the lessons from his successes but also the wisdom gained through his shortcomings. His kindness, patience, and laughter left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Ruben is preceded in death by his parents, Jose "Rosendo" P. Lopez and Cruz Cortez Lopez; his brother Rodolfo "Rudy" Lopez and sister Hermenia "Mimi" Taylor. He is survived by his loving wife, Essie Lynn DeVille Lopez; his children, Rebecca E. Lopez Duke, Rachel C. Lopez, and Jesse R. Lopez; his sisters, Henrietta "Mutzie" Lopez and Carolyn Darby; his brothers, Rosendo "Chendo" Lopez, Ramon Lopez, and Ricardo "Ritchie" Lopez; 10 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, his fur baby Kolbi Jak and many beloved extended family and friends who will deeply miss him.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Crossroads Baptist Church in Vinton, with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 AM. A meal will be served in the fellowship hall immediately afterward, where stories, memories, and laughter will continue in celebration of Ruben's life.