Jose (Joe) Gracia Chavez, of Corpus Christi, Texas, was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He passed away Friday, August 25, 2023 at the age of 90, surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, and brother.
Joe was born on November 20, 1932 to Mr. and Mrs. Jesus Chavez of Corpus Christi. He helped his parents and siblings run the family store, Chavez Grocery located at 1810 Morris and later left to join the US Air Force.
In 1962, he met his soon to be wife, Maria Carrizales. Together they went on to have 5 children. After retiring, he opened his own restaurant, Smokey Joe’s BBQ restaurant where he proudly smoked his briskets for 16 hours. Later, he became an independent contractor and spent his last years focused on plumbing. A proud veteran of the US Air Force, he instilled a devout love of country in his children. He was a devoted grandfather, helping several grandchildren with their first vehicles. His love of music is shared by his children and grandchildren, from the Glenn Miller era, and Blues, to Tejano, and Mariachi. His favorite pastime was BBQing, which is carried on by his children and grandsons.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesus and Guadalupe Chavez, four brothers, and three sisters, and two grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 60 years; children, Michael, Joe, Christine, Monica and Edward(Crystal); 20 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren; one brother, Ramiro, and numerous nieces and nephews along with extended family and friends.
A dedicated/hard worker, he supervised his last job just one month before his passing, after succumbing to cancer. A heart of gold and a true giver, he will be greatly missed by family and friends. He knew no strangers and was known by many. His hard work ethic will live in the memories of all those who knew him. His is a presence that will be sorely missed.
Dad, thank you for everything you did for all of us one way or another. Losing you leaves a gaping hole in our hearts…we love you daddy.
Services will be held at Funeraria del Angel (3442 Holly Rd). Public visitation is Thursday, September 7 from 5:00P.M. until 10:00P.M. Family and friends will gather again Friday, September 8 at 11:00A.M. and depart for the church. Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic church, 710 S. 19th Street at 1:00P.M. followed by the burial at Memory Gardens at 2:30P.M.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FunerariaDelAngelMHolly.com for the Chavez family.
