On Friday, December 5, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas, Joel H. Perez took the hand of his Lord and Savior and was welcomed into the gates of Heaven at the age of 69. Though his passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of all who loved him, there is comfort in knowing he is now at peace, embraced by God’s eternal light.
Joel was born on May 1, 1956, to Noe V. Perez and Elva Hinojosa Perez in Falfurrias, Texas. He earned his Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Studies from Del Mar College in Corpus Christi. Joel proudly served his country as a Sergeant and Police Officer in the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army for a total of 12 years, carrying with him a deep sense of honor, discipline, and patriotism throughout his life. He also dedicated more than 20 years to serving as a Police Officer for several counties and later worked as a Gate Guard with the John G. and Stella Memorial Foundation for 15 years, until his illness no longer allowed him to continue.
Joel was also an avid reader, loved playing video games, and was a jokester who enjoyed laughing and making others laugh. He was a true family man, an incredible supporter, and a steady source of unconditional love. More than anything, he was a man of the heart. He loved his family with a depth that could be felt in every hug, every word of encouragement, and every moment he showed up without being asked. His wife, children, and grandchildren were the brightest lights in his world. Anyone who knew him felt his kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to the people he cherished most.
Though his earthly journey has ended, the impact of his life lives on in the countless memories he created and the love he shared so generously. He will be missed beyond words, remembered beyond measure, and cherished for all time.
Joel is preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Jaiven Ray Perez; and his sister, Priscilla Garcia.
He leaves behind to cherish his memories, his wife of over 35 years, Norma R. Perez of Premont, Texas; his son, Michael Paul Perez; his daughters, Leslie Ann (Lando Martinez) Perez of Ben Bolt, Texas, Victoria Nicole (Jason Garcia) Perez, and Leanna Joel (Isaul) Tijerina, both of Premont. He is also survived by his brothers, Noe (Minerva) Perez Jr. and Alejandro (DeeDee) Perez Sr.; his sisters, Lala (Meliton) Garza, Martha Manson, and Norma (David) Cantu; 11 grandchildren, Levi D. Perez, Adeline G. Perez, Zacharias J. Martinez, Jazmine L. Sarmiento, Jason L. Garcia Jr., Mason J. Garcia, Nevaeh I. Tijerina, Araceli Y. Tijerina, Jaizlynn R. Tijerina, Isaella I. Tijerina, and Isaul Tijerina Jr.; great-grandchild, Eliseo G. Bazan; great-grandchild on the way, Aziel Saenz; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Pallbearers will be Michael P. Perez and Isaul Tijerina.
Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Funeraria Del Angel Howard Williams with a Memorial Rosary to be prayed at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service at 10:45 a.m. Services will conclude with a 12:00 p.m. Burial with military honors at the Salinas Cemetery 9651 CR 241 in Concepcion, Texas.
