Faustino Pena Salinaz, II

Faustino Pena Salinaz II, lovingly known as “Pops,” passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 21, 2026, at Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo, Texas, at the age of 78.

Born on August 5, 1947, in Sonora, Texas, Pops was raised in Miles, Texas, where he learned the values of hard work, integrity, faith, and family that would define his life.

On November 6, 1965, he married the love of his life, Guadalupe Guerrero. Together they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage, building a legacy of love, faith, and family that will continue for generations.

Faustino devoted more than 36 years of his life to law enforcement, serving the citizens of Texas with honor, courage, and unwavering integrity. Throughout his distinguished career, he served with the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Department, Amarillo Police Department, Runnels County Sheriff’s Department, Coke County Sheriff’s Department, the Texas Commission on Private Security – Criminal Investigation Division, and ultimately as Chief of Police for the Friona Police Department. His commitment to justice and protecting others earned him the respect of colleagues and the communities he faithfully served.

Although he wore many badges throughout his career, the title he treasured most was “Pops.” He was happiest when surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought endless joy to his life. Whether he was cheering on his beloved Texas Longhorns, spending hours in his woodworking shop creating something with his hands, or simply spending time with his family, he cherished every moment. His steady presence, quiet strength, and unconditional love made everyone feel safe and welcome.

He lived in several Texas communities throughout his life, including Miles, Amarillo, Bronte, Arlington, and Friona, but wherever he lived, family was always his true home.

He was preceded in death by his father, Faustino Salinaz Sr.; his mother, Escolastica Salinaz; his brother, Modesto Salinas; and his sister, Paula Martinez.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Guadalupe Salinaz of Amarillo, Texas; his children: Molly Hall and husband Emett of Amarillo, Texas; Lisa Robertson and husband Thomas of Austin, Texas; Cindy Pyke of Amarillo, Texas; Christy Sleeper of Amarillo, Texas; Teresa Steward and husband Jason of Miles, Texas; Joe Guerrero, Amarillo, Texas and Faustino Salinaz III of Amarillo, Texas.

He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Emett Ray Hall, Dusty Hall, Cheyenne Heredia and husband Derek, Coby Hall, Savanna Morgan and husband John, Parker Robertson and wife Kenze, Berkley Robertson, McKynzie Steward, Mercy Vettese and husband Jack, Colin Steward, Gracie Sleeper, Amariouna Sleeper, Saige Pyke, Bella Salinaz, Gabriella Salinaz, and Karter Salinaz. He was blessed with 13 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, and fellow law enforcement officers.

Pops will be remembered as a man of honor, unwavering faith, quiet strength, and deep love for his family. He led by example, worked tirelessly, and gave selflessly. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved so dearly, and the values he instilled in those who knew him.

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing that Pops is no longer suffering and is resting in the arms of our Savior. He fought a good fight and overcame so much with incredible strength, courage, and faith. His life was one well lived, his service honorable, and his love immeasurable. He will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and never forgotten.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

“A life dedicated to serving others, a heart devoted to family, and a legacy that will live on forever.”

Viewing will be from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors and from noon until 6:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2026. Rosary will be said at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel and the funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 29, 2026, also in Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel. Burial will follow at Llano Cemetery.