(Geronimo) — As family and friends prepare to celebrate the life of Ty Machado this weekend, many across Seguin are remembering a young man whose talent, determination and love for barbecue earned him recognition far beyond Texas.
Ty Joseph Machado, 24, and a 2020 graduate of Navarro High School passed away on May 24, 2026.
Those who knew him best also remember a young man whose passion for competition barbecue opened doors to opportunities across the country.
Long before he became known as a talented pitmaster, KWED Radio and the Seguin Daily News had the privilege of sharing Ty’s journey with the community. Listeners and readers followed his rise through the barbecue world as he competed against some of the nation’s top cooks while still in his early teens.
One of the highlights came in 2018 when the then-16-year-old Navarro High School student competed in the World Food Championships in Orange Beach, Alabama. Facing nearly 1,500 chefs from around the world and competing against seasoned adults, Ty earned an impressive seventh-place finish in the Steak Division, making him one of the youngest competitors in the field.
Ty’s presentation of ribeye steak tacos showcased not only his culinary skills but also his pride in his family, culture and heritage. His success at the championship was one of several accomplishments that helped establish him as one of the country’s rising young barbecue talents. Over the years, he collected numerous accolades, appeared on Food Network and earned multiple world championship titles before the age of 16.
While his barbecue achievements brought him national attention, those closest to Ty say his greatest gifts were his kindness, friendships and the joy he brought to those around him.
Most recently, Ty worked for Encompass Services as a crew chief, surveying across the country.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 6 at Living Waters Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ty Machado BBQ Memorial, PO Box 1978, Seguin, Texas 78156. The fund will support youth barbecue events across the country and help educate future generations of pitmasters.
Click here to revisit Ty’s barbecue journey as provided by KWED Radio and the Seguin Daily News.