In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to T.E.X.A.S. Rescue (Texas Equine Xperience AndSanctuary) or your favorite veteran charityEvelio Oscar Sibila, 91, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, in his home in Tyler, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. Evelio was born on November 22, 1934, in Key West, Florida, and he was raised in Havana, Cuba. Evelio lived a life marked by dedication to his family, community, and country.

Evelio graduated from Key West High School in 1955 and enlisted in the United States Air Force that same year. His military career spanned an impressive 23 years, during which he rose to the rank of Tech Sergeant and served as a Chief Weather Observer in the Fourth Weather Detachment. Evelio was also an active member of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) Judo team, a testament to his discipline and commitment. His service to his country remained one of his proudest achievements.

After retiring from the Air Force, Evelio moved to San Antonio, Texas, where he pursued further education at the University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHSC) Dental Technology program. In1996, he married Lee Anne Mixson-Sibila and relocated to Bullard, Texas. Together they founded OraLab dental laboratory, serving Tyler and the surrounding communities for over two decades.

Evelio was deeply involved in the Bullard community. He volunteered as a fireman and medic for 15 years and served as a translator for the Cherokee County court system. He was also an active memberof the local Chamber of Commerce. Alongside Lee Anne, Evelio participated in organizations such as North East Texas Hunting Retriever Club (NETX HRC) and the Rose Country Retriever Club.

A man of many talents and passions, Evelio was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed training retrievers. He was also a skilled artisan with a love for leather crafting, pottery, jewelry making, and upholstery—hobbies that reflected his creativity and meticulous nature.

Evelio is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years, Lee Anne Mixson-Sibila; cousin Lorraine Alonso Skawski; daughter Deborah Sibila, son Mike Sibila; stepdaughter Hollie Shinn; grandchildren Selina and spouse Ed Garza, Alexis Sibila-Wellman and spouse Thomas Wellman, Shane Sibila; great granddaughter Holiday Shinn and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Aleida Garcia; father, Evelio Sibila; stepfather, Isidro Garcia; his first wife, Shirley Sibila, mother of Mike and Deborah; and former spouse, Maureen Sibila.

Whether you knew Evelio as the Cuban, Sarge, Sib, or Viejo, you knew he never met a stranger. He was quick-witted, loved to joke, and often “forgot” to engage his filter. Most importantly, he loved largely and with an open heart.

May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Wilderness Church, 117 Shelley Dr., Tyler, Texas 75701, to begin at 1:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to T.E.X.A.S. Rescue (Texas Equine Xperience And Sanctuary) or your favorite veteran charity.