Porfirio Garza, Jr., a retired correctional officer, passed away March 28, 2025, in Mansfield, TX. He worked for the department for 21 years, retiring in 2011.
He began his career as a cadet in April 1990. After graduating the Basic Correctional Officer Academy in May, he reported to Chuckawalla Valley State Prison. He transferred to North Kern State Prison in June 1993 and then to California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison in May 1998.
He then promoted to correctional sergeant in May 2001, serving in this rank for eight years. In October 2009, he transferred back to correctional officer rank, where he remained until retiring in December 2011.
“Porfirio was a very respected correctional officer and correctional sergeant. Porfirio will be greatly missed by all who knew him and had the opportunity to work with him. Our sincerest condolences to his family. At this profound time of mourning, please keep the Garza family in your thoughts and prayers,” according to a statement issued by SATF.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
WSP‑RC unites to remember recently passed staff
Wasco State Prison Reception Center (WSP-RC) staff were joined by family members and close friends to remember the lives of…
Darla McCall, retired office services supervisor II
Darla McCall, a retired office services supervisor II from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away Aug. 8, 2026. McCall started…
Henry Garcia, retired CTF correctional supervising cook
Henry Garcia, a retired correctional supervising cook from the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad, passed away Aug. 1, 2026.…
Ray Padilla, retired youth correctional lieutenant
Ray Padilla, a retired youth correctional lieutenant, passed away July 16, 2026. Services will be held Sept. 19 in Fontana.…
Gina Marie Villarreal, retired pharmacy technician
Gina Marie Villarreal, a retired pharmacy technician, passed away July 23, 2026. She worked at Central California Women’s Facility in…
Jose Rocha, retired correctional officer
Jose Rocha, a retired correctional officer from California State Prison, Sacramento, passed away July 16, 2026. Rocha began his career…