Carlos Fernando Paz

Carlos Fernando Paz, better known as "Taz," passed away on his birthday, September 30, 2025, at the age of 67, due to complications from surgery.
Taz was born September 30, 1958, in Hamburg, Germany, where he was adopted by Carlos and Rosa Paz. His mother later remarried Major James Kreutz-the man Taz proudly considered his father. Growing up as a military son, he carried with him a spirit of discipline and strength that shaped his life.
At a young age, Taz developed a passion for martial arts and Sifu boxing, becoming highly skilled in both before serving in the U.S. Army with the 24th Infantry Recon.
After his time in the Army, he built a career in the East Texas oil fields, where he became a legend in his trade. His career spanned 39 years, during which he earned not only respect for his skill but also the love of countless friends and his oil field brothers, who became family.
He and his wife, Lisa, raised their son and daughter in Kilgore, building a life filled with love, perseverance and devotion. Later in life, his proudest and most treasured role was being "PePaw" to his only grandchild, Clara.
Taz was larger than life-strong, courageous, outspoken, loyal, and fiercely devoted to those he loved. He fought with honor until the very end.
He is survived by his devoted wife of more than 40 years, Lisa "Momma" Paz; his daughters, Sammie Gibson and her husband, Shane, and Laura Michelle; his cherished granddaughter, Clara; his sister-in-love, Laura Harber; his bonus sister, Tammy Reynolds; his bonus brothers: Paul, Jar Head and Melvin; his brother-in-love, Randy Davis; his brothers, Steve and Danny; his uncle, Tommy Moran; his brother-in-law, John, and wife, Rose, who were a steadfast support during his battle; numerous nieces and nephews; countless friends; and his loyal dog, Izzy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rosa; his brother, Mario; his only son, Michael; his best friend Mike Rodgers and his Aunt Angie.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025 at East Texas Funeral Home.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Chastain and his staff, his care team at Christus Good Shepherd's SICU-especially Chelsey and Neal-and his comfort care nurse, Tamrah.
John 16:22: "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."

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