Paul C. Valadez

EDINBURG- Paul C. Valadez, 61, passed away on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg.

Paul esteemed Art Professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) in the School of Art & Design. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the San Francisco Art Institute and his Master of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

Beyond his distinguished academic career, Paul had an insatiable curiosity for the world around him. He loved trying new things and embraced a wide range of interests, from military history and coins to an eclectic appreciation for music of all genres. He possessed a unique eye for the unusual, finding beauty and intrigue in things others often overlooked. His intellect, creativity, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by his family, colleagues, students, friends and the art world.

Paul is survived by his wife, Lisa Valadez; parents, Manuel Jr. and Linda Valadez; brother, Mark (Kimme Macanas) Valadez; nephew, Spencer (Monica Smith) Valadez; great-niece, Jillian Valadez; father-in-law, Keith L. Walters; and numerous aunts, uncles cousins; and the RGV Arts Community and beyond including all his South Texas friends who became family.

Cremation will take place at Memorial Cremation Center in Edinburg.

A gathering honoring Professor Paul Valadez is being planned by UTRGV School of Art & Design.