Irma Garcia was killed on May 24, 2022, in the school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvdale, Texas. Irma died attempting to shield her fourth-grade students from the gunman who attacked the class.
On May 26, 2022, Irma's husband, Joe Garcia, visited a memorial for his wife and the others who were killed in the shooting. Joe suffered a heart attack following his visit and died the same day.
Joe and Irma Garcia were married for 24 years. Joe's death was confirmed by his nephew, John Martinez, who said it is his belief that Joe died "of a broken heart."
The pair met in high school and had been together ever since. They shared four children.
Irma had been a teacher at Robb Elementary School for 23 years.
John said of Irma, "She died a hero trying to protect her students." He shared that one of the slain children was found wrapped up in Irma's arms, noting, "She was a mom to them as well."
He continued, "She was a light in every room. She always had joy in her. She was a light to the world. I just really do want her to be remembered as someone who put her life on the line, to the very last moment. She sacrificed herself."
He also said, "In her life, she saw the bright side of things. She was one of the funniest people I've honestly really ever met. I mean, there are times where I would just wanna, like, hang out with only her."
Two GoFundMe accounts have been set up for the family of Irma and Joe Garcia. The first is to help cover funeral costs for Irma's service; the second has been set up to cover costs for both.
