Noel Patrick Texeira, known as "Tex" to all who knew and invariably loved him, passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 56.

A proud resident of Holliston for nearly the last two decades, Tex was born in Readville, Massachusetts, in 1969. He was an exceptionally devoted son and brother and a deeply loving and adoring husband. He is survived by his father, John Texeira; his brother, Eric Texeira; his beloved wife, Kristen Hedrick; his parents-in-law, Steve and Lisa Hedrick; and a wide circle of family and friends near and far whom he loved as family. He was predeceased by his mother, Virginia Texeira (Talbot).

An honorably discharged veteran, Tex proudly served during the Cold War and in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Following his military service, he attended Northeastern University, graduating 10th in his class. He later earned his Master's degree in Business from Clark University and spent the majority of his career as a Director of Software Technology at EMC.

Tex lived life fully and always on his own terms, with his world centered firmly around the people he loved. He embraced adventure in all forms—from sky and scuba diving to roaring around in his prized 1991 Corvette as the avid car enthusiast he was. He equally cherished life's quieter gifts: the sense of community at his gym, discovering small diners, cheering on his Northeastern Huskies on the ice, and enjoying his favorite game shows.

Tex enjoyed hearty jokes and amusing stories and his laugh filled every inch of every single room he entered. He loved all holidays, but Christmas was his favorite - complete with festive decorations, where he reigned as the world's most thoughtful gift-giver. And his love for his New England Patriots was so unmatched, he was honored as Patriots Fan of the Year in 2004. He treasured Sunday football lunches with his father, eating spicy Indian food. Above all else, Tex's favorite pastime was doting on Kristen; he cherished her and the life they built together, married for ten years and partners in every sense of the word for more than nineteen.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a service at 12:00 p.m., at Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main Street, Ashland, Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Noel's name to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation .