Eric John Schwab

RANCHO VIEJO, TX. – Eric John Schwab passed away on Saturday, the 20th of June 2026, in Harlingen, Texas, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 79 years of age.

Born June 28, 1946, in Brownsville, Texas, Eric was the son of the late Robert John Schwab and Norma Cecilia Schwab.

Eric was a longtime, well-known court reporter. He began his profession in Washington, D.C. reporting Senate hearings and traveling on Air Force Two during President Nixon’s 1969 world tour. He later returned to Brownsville where he served as court reporter for Judge Darrell B. Hester from 1970 to 1981. Eric then started Schwab Court Reporting Service, where he jokingly referred to himself as both CEO and janitor. He continued serving the legal community until his retirement in 2017, concluding a 49-year career.

Eric was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He enjoyed many hobbies including bird hunting in his younger years, fishing, camping, gardening, cooking, and spending time with his dogs. Around the neighborhood, he was often seen taking the family dog for rides. Eric was also an awarding-winning chili cook who took great pleasure in cooking large pots of chili for family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Eric was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Anthony “Tony” Schwab; his first wife, Julia “Judy” Schwab; and his son-in-law, Charles “Charlie” Hoff.

Eric is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Sydnee Hammond Schwab; one son, Gene Eric Schwab (Brook); two daughters, Yvonne Elaine Hoff and Quincey Taylor Schwab; five grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory and miss him dearly.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, the 28th of June 2026, which would have been his 80th birthday, between the hours of three o'clock in the afternoon and eight o'clock at night, with a Celebration of Life service to begin at six o'clock Sunday evening within the East Chapel of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home. All services will conclude Sunday night.

In lieu of floral arrangements and customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Eric Schwab to the Michael J. Fox Foundation (tribute.michaeljfox.org).

Memories of Eric may be shared at www.darlingmouser.com.

Personalized funeral arrangements directed by Steven R. Hieu Bailey, CFSP and Staff have been entrusted to the care of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home at 945 Palm Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas 78520, (956) 546-7111.