Edited by Karen Gleason
The 830 Times
Editor’s note: The words in this article were written by Jessica Stewart, Justice of the
Peace Pct. 2 Antonio “Tony” Faz III’s daughter, and by Faz himself, writing about his
musical career upon the release of his last CD.
Justice of the Peace Pct. 2 Antonio “Tony” Faz III, died at his home
in Del Rio April 7, and he is being remembered as a loving family man, a gifted musician and a dedicated servant of the community.
Faz was born on Dec. 8, 1953, the second of three children of Antonio Faz Jr. and
Delores Faz Perry. Faz graduated from San Felipe Del Rio High School in 1972 and
attended San Antonio Community College.
In 1977, he met the love of his life, JoAnn, and together they created a beautiful family.
Throughout his life, Faz was a “jack of all trades.” He worked in the automotive industry,
as purchasing director for the city of Del Rio and as assistant director for Sunset
Memorial Oaks Funeral Home.
However, his true calling emerged when he served his community as Justice of the Peace
for Val Verde County’s Precinct 2, a position he was elected to for three consecutive
terms from 2015 to 2025.
Known for his dedication and compassion, Faz went above and beyond in his role,
earning the love and respect of his constituents. He was deeply involved in the Texas
Justice of the Peace and Constables Association (JPCA), where he served as director of
its District 4. He also held the position of JPCA District 6 Director and served as
president of the South Texas Justice of the Peace and Constables Association.
These associations are critical in promoting the best practices and providing continuing
education for justices of the peace and constables across the state.
In recognition of his service, Faz was honored with the key to the city of Del Rio.
While his work as a judge was a significant part of his life, Faz’s true ministry was being
a present and loving husband and father and a true friend. He was happiest when
surrounded by his family and friends. He was a father figure and mentor to many, with a
rare gift for making those around him feel seen, valued and uplifted.
His words carried encouragement and his presence brought comfort. After spending time
with him, you always walked away with a smile, a good laugh and more light in your
heart.
Faz’s legacy of love, service and music will forever live on in the hearts of his family,
friends and community. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
A passionate sports fan, Faz loved the Dallas Cowboys and volunteered as a coach for
Pee-Wee football and Babe Ruth baseball.
Music was another great love of his life. Faz was a gifted and passionate musician whose
love for music touched the hearts of many. A true multi-instrumentalist, he played guitar,
piano and drums and was known for his captivating voice and magnetic stage presence.
His musical taste was broad – he cherished oldies and country – but his heart belonged to
Tejano music. Faz performed at countless weddings, quinceañeras and community
events, bringing joy to every audience he entertained.
Faz’s musical journey began in the 1970s. Over the course of his career, he shared the
stage with many Tejano artists, including Little Joe Hernandez, Ruben Ramos, La Mafia,
Sunny Ozuna, Los Dudes, Adalberto, David Marez, The Latin Breed and many others.
Faz said he was inspired by the Big Band sound and began performing as a guitarist with
the group La Gente, which emulated many of the songs of Little Joe Y La Familia.
In the mid-1980s, Faz began his first band, Tony Faz & Texas Encounter Band. He was
determined to take his musical work to another level and was by then writing music and
recorded his first album, “Breakin’ Thru.” The album was produced and arranged by
Faz’s great friend, fellow Del Rio native Joe Revelez.
In 2001, Faz recorded the “Perdoname Mujer” CD with his new band, Tejano Heat. A
special song written by Faz in memory of his mother, titled “Mama,” was also recorded
by Ram Herrera in the “El Cantante” CD. Other songs written by Faz and recorded on
this edition include “Perdoname Mujer,” “Dos Corazones,” “Que Les Dire,” and “Cuando
Te Conosi.” This CD was produced and arranged by Faz’s son, Mark Anthony
Hernandez, and recorded at Studio 118 in Del Rio.
Faz’s latest recording, “Increible,” was also produced and arranged by his son
Hernandez. It includes a song Faz wrote, titled “Calla, Calla.” It was recorded at Jack
Records by Jorge Alejandro Knott and mastered at Lone Star Studios by Mike Sanchez.
Faz frequently collaborated with fellow musicians, always eager to share his talent and
passion. He found joy in spending hours writing and arranging music. His legacy will
also live on through the music he created and the countless lives he touched.
Faz was preceded in death by his father, Antonio Faz Jr., and by his mother, Delores Faz
Perry, as well as by a brother, Gerald Faz.
He is survived by his wife, JoAnn Faz; his sister, Cynthia F. Balboa, and her husband
Pedro; his children: Antonio Faz IV and his wife Ninel, Johnny Ray Faz and his wife
Karla, Mark Hernandez and his wife Selma, Gerald Ray Faz and his wife Monica, Jessica
Marie Stewart and her husband Patrick and Michael Anthony Faz.
He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The editor of this story may be reached at delriomagnoliafan@gmail.com .
