Stafford mourns Carlos “Inocencio” Garcia, Green Beret and community member

Stafford lost a beloved community member with the passing of Carlos “Inocencio” R. Garcia, 75, who died on Sunday, September 6, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. His wife, Liz, was by his side.

Mr. Garcia, a proud Green Beret who served valiantly in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, made Stafford his home after a lifetime of travel. He was known for his passion for new technology, gadgets, and a distinctive sense of style, often seen in tailored suits or vibrant attire.

Born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, on April 18, 1951, Carlos spent his early years enjoying fishing and time with family and friends on the island. At 17, he deployed to Vietnam, an experience he looked back on with great personal pride and often shared with fellow veterans, finding peace and camaraderie in those conversations.

Carlos and his wife, Liz, shared a 46-year marriage that took them across the United States, its territories, and abroad. Liz’s career in the Navy provided them with extensive travel and excitement. Their final destination brought them to the “Navy Yard” in Washington D.C., where Liz completed her last deployment. Carlos retired at the age of 66 as a Senior Lead Purchasing Agent for Dahl Green Naval Base in King George, VA.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth D. (Pehush) Garcia; his mother, Maria Esther Garcia; his stepfather, Litó Rosa; and three brothers, Pepé (Sandra), Carlito, and Paco (Evelyn) Diaz. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, with whom he made sure to forge individual special bonds.

The community gathered to honor Mr. Garcia earlier this week. Friends were received from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Covenant Funeral Service in Stafford. A service took place at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, at the funeral home chapel. Interment followed in Quantico National Cemetery.