A young football player from Palmview High School, Gilbert Govea III, passed away in a tragic vehicle accident on November 16, 2025, at the young age of 18.
Sadly, Gilbert took his last breath just 2 days after celebrating his 18th birthday on Friday.
His mother had wished him a birthday and best wishes for the days to come, writing:
wow how time flies now an adult 18 years old, what a blessing to have you by my side my beautiful boy, I love you
Denise N Urquieta
However, his dreams came untrue as he succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident.
Gilbert Govea III is survived by his parents, Gilbert and Denise N Urquieta, and his sisters.
Denise, Gilbert’s mom, hasn’t spoken publicly about losing her boy yet.
That said, what she has done is quietly change her Facebook profile picture to one of him, a silent way of keeping her son right there where everyone can still see his smile.
Liz Ivon Govea, Gilbert’s aunt, penned a brief tribute post expressing her sadness, which reads:
My heart is very sad and I know that my life will never be the same without the mischief of this young man who always gladdened my heart… Thank God for these 18 years He allowed us to have this angel in our lives.
Liz Ivon Govea
Family friends started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs because no one is ever ready for this.
Born on November 14, 2007, Gilbert Govea III played defensive tackle for the Lobos football team. In fact, he was a starter on the offensive line.
He was a two-year letterman, and everyone around the program believed his best football was still ahead of him. Sadly, his football dreams couldn’t be fulfilled.
Coaches and teammates say he brought fire every single practice and game. Palmview High School head football coach Margarito Requenez said,
He was a player I was very close too. This hurts
Margarito Requenez
Following his demise, La Joya ISD issued a statement, writing:
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Palmview High School student Gilbert Govea who tragically lost his life this past weekend following a vehicle accident. Our hearts are with Gilbert’s family, friends, classmates, and all who knew and loved him.
La Joya ISD
So far, his family hasn’t published details surrounding his funeral and memorial services as they are processing the grief.
During this challenging time, we pray for the strength of Gilbert’s parents, siblings, friends, teammates, and extended family members.
Rest easy, Gilbert Govea III!
