It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Raul (Rudy) H. Alafita, age 91, who departed this life peacefully on Saturday, May 10, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
Born in Cotulla, Texas in 1933, Rudy originated from humble beginnings, and it was his love of sports which fulfilled his school years. He was a celebrated athlete in both baseball and basketball during high school, receiving numerous college scholarship opportunities which unfortunately he had to pass on in order to support his family. After graduation, he moved to Adrian, Michigan, to pursue various work prospects.
It was during those early years in Michigan that Rudy discovered another one of his passions… Music. As a self-taught drummer, guitarist and vocalist, Rudy was involved in various Mexican conjunto music groups, forging new roads in Michigan and neighboring states with the sounds learned from his start in Texas. His musical contributions were groundbreaking for this time and area, earning him distinguished recognition in Michigan and beyond and leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of hearing him play. These accomplishments ultimately culminated in him, and his fellow conjunto musicians, being honored with a State of Michigan Historical Marker, a first to honor the contributions of a Latino community in the state. The Marker, placed in the heart of Detroit’s Mexican town, was dedicated and unveiled in 2023, and Rudy, at the age of 90, was one of the few recipients still alive to directly take part in the ceremony.
Music could have been his lifelong pursuit, had it not been for Carmen Martinez, the first love of his life. They met in Adrian, dated, and after finally earning her father’s approval, were married on November 28, 1959. They had two children: daughter Lisa Ellen and son Mark Jeffrey, both of whom were symbols of pride and joy for the couple. They enjoyed 29 years of marriage until Carmen’s untimely passing in 1990. Several years later, Rudy was blessed to find a second love of his life, Georgia Greenhill. They were together from 1998 until Rudy’s passing. He loved spending time with Georgia’s family as if they were his own, and they welcomed Rudy with warmth and love. Additionally, Georgia was instrumental during these last several years with helping him through his many medical issues, providing care as well as companionship.
In addition to sports, music, and family, Rudy was proud veteran, honorably serving his country in the 25th Infantry of the United States Army from 1954-1956, a time he remembered with both humility and pride. He was also a dedicated worker at General Motors, retiring after 30 years of service.
He is survived by his daughter Lisa (Jim) Lucas, son Mark (Kristin) Alafita; four granddaughters, Alyssa Lucas, Kristina (Zak) Bellas, Sabrina Alafita, and Claire Alafita; two great-granddaughters, Frankie and Stevie Bellas; brother Carlos Alafita Jr. and sister Chriselda Verastique; and his partner, Georgia Greenhill.
He was predeceased by his beloved first wife, Carmen (nee Martinez), his parents Carlos Alafita and Hortencia Villarreal, grandparents who raised him Eloisa and Nacho Alafita, his brothers Gustavo Villarreal, Carlos Villarreal, Guerranamo Verastique, and Mike Verastique.
The family will receive visitors on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian. The Funeral Liturgy will be Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10:30 AM, at Holy Family Parish St. Joseph Campus, with Father Michael Newman, OSFS officiating. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Rudy will be remembered for his strength of character, warmth of spirit, deep sense of musical rhythm, natural athletic talents and the profound impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Words of comfort to the family may be offered at www.andersonfuneralservices.com. Memorial donations in Rudy’s memory may be given to Hospice of Lenawee or Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation. The Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian is assisting the family with arrangements.