Jose "Joe"

G. Gonzalez

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of José García Gonzalez, 73, of San Benito, Texas. He left this world surrounded by loved ones on July 23, 2024. Born on September 14, 1950, to his doting parents, Eliseo Gonzalez and Josefina Garcia, he lived a life dedicated to his family, community, and the betterment of others.

José, or "Joe G.," as he was lovingly known, devoted 30 years of his career to serving the people of Texas as a social worker for the Department of Human Services. He worked tirelessly under the Food Stamp and the Community Care for the Aged and Disabled programs, where he helped countless individuals and families before his retirement in 2002.

He proudly served in the Texas National Guard/Army Reserves for 12 years, achieving the rank of Specialist 5/Sergeant (SP5/SGT). He was a dedicated member of the Support Company, 3rd Battalion, 141st Infantry Regiment.

In addition to his professional work, Joe's commitment to the betterment of his community began at the ripe old age of 18 years old. His passion for sports and the development of the youth of San Benito was evident through his service as a volunteer coach for many different sports leagues. Joe served as a football coach, pony league baseball coach, American Legion baseball coach, and was the beloved head coach of "Joe's Misfits" men's softball team. He inspired and mentored many young athletes, instilling in them the values of teamwork and perseverance.

Furthermore, Joe beamed with pride as a committed member of the San Benito CISD Board of Trustees, where he served with distinction for 16 years. His leadership roles included School Board President, Vice-President, Secretary, and committee chair of the Curriculum, Building, and Policy Committees. As a board trustee, Joe spent much time ensuring the educational landscape of San Benito, securing that every child received the resources needed to succeed. His influence helped bring forth many programs, and helped create and reconstruct many of SBCISD's schools including: Angela Gerusa Leal Elementary, Judge Oscar de la Fuente Elementary, Dr. Raul Garza STEAM Academy, the new Berta Cabaza Middle School, Riverside Middle School, Miller Jordan Middle School (new wings), Callandret Positive Redirection Center, Veterans Memorial Academy, San Benito High School (Gilbert Montalvo CATE Building, Science Building, new Band Hall, Choir Hall and Theater Arts reconstruction), Jana Landrum UTEX Building, and Bobby Morrow Stadium. Joe was also known as a strong advocate for teachers, ancillary workers, and did his best to ensure good stewardship of taxpayer money.

Joe was also the founding member of the Jessica Beth Garcia Memorial Scholarship fund, focusing on creating scholarships for deserving San Benito High School Track graduates. The Jessica Beth Garcia Memorial Scholarship proudly helped the children of SBHS with college scholarships for fifteen years. He is also known for the countless fundraisers organized for many people in need. From medical to funeral expenses, Joe selflessly organized help for anyone who needed it, leading to many a burden lifted. His legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire others for generations to come.

Joe was also known for his passion for music. As the lead vocalist for local tejano group, La Distancia Band, he shared his love of music with all who knew him. La Distancia band went on to record several LPs, and albums, with appearances on the "Aqui Rogelio" and "Johnny Canales Show" respectively. His love of music transcended later in life with his "Ayer y Hoy Entertainment" business that focused on karaoke and DJ services. Joe's performances brought joy and unity to many community events, and his voice will be dearly missed.

A life well lived, Joe had many accomplishments, but the greatest of these is his "Amor Eterno," his precious family. Known as "Pop" and "Daddy" to his children, his family name lovingly became "Grandpa Joe" with the birth of his first grandchild. Joe spent the majority of his life dedicated to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, who learned many valuable lessons from him. His family will always remember to never judge anyone before you have taken a chance to know them, to advocate for others, to be proud of who you are and what you bring to the table, to always "use your brain," and of course, family over everything.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Jose and Cecilia Garcia; his parents, Eliseo and Josefina; his adored baby sister, Margot Gonzalez; his beloved uncle, Juan Garcia, and his aunt Dolores Cortez.

Left to cherish Joe's memory are his wife of 50 years, Maria Elena; his children, Constable José Adrian Gonzalez (Chriselda), Yesenia G. Costilla (Damacio, Jr.), Hilario Gonzalez (Cynthia), and Cecilia Gonzalez. He leaves behind a legacy through his cherished grandchildren: José Cain, Adrienne Marie (Homar), Mia Rhiannon, Jennah Rheean, Jessica Beth, Christopher Abram, Benjamin Isaac, Maria Elena, Roman Ignacio, Desiree Marie, Haley Rain, Raydyn, Myles, Ezra, Ivan, Ylani Rae, Carrie Jude, Eliseo Rhys, and his great-grandchild, Joseph Rainart. He is also survived by his aunt, Maria (Romeo) Mancillas, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joe will also be missed by his beloved pet, Kitty, and his fur grandbabies Bogey, Kota, and Hunter, who brought much comfort to him throughout his last year of life.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are José Cain Gonzalez, Homar Hernandez, Damacio Costilla, Jr., Myles Rosenbaum, Ezra Rosenbaum, and José Adrian Gonzalez, along with honorary pallbearers, Eliseo R. Chapa and Joseph R. Gonzalez.

José García Gonzalez's life was a testament to the power of service, music, and family. His absence leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy will continue to shine brightly.

Visitation will take place at Trinity Funeral Chapel in Harlingen, Texas on Sunday, July 28, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with a Prayer of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 pm.

Funeral mass will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 10 am at Saint Theresa Catholic Church in San Benito, Texas. Interment will follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito, Texas.

With love and remembrance, Joe's funeral arrangements have been entrusted by his family to Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home; 1002 East Harrison Ave, Harlingen, Texas 78550. Please contact us with any questions at (956) 364-2444, or, visit us at www.trinityfunerals.com.