Joseph Rudolph Leija Sr.

Joseph Rudolph Leija, Sr. was born on November 6, 1943, to Francisco Leija and Antonia Fernandez Leija, embarking on a life journey that would become a shining testament to the transformative power of faith, family, and resilience. Rudy, as he was lovingly known, was one of six children, and his upbringing was deeply rooted in a strong spiritual foundation that would guide him throughout his life's path. This spiritual foundation was nurtured through his regular attendance at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, where he was baptized. From a young age, Rudy exemplified a strong work ethic, unwavering reliability, and a warm, friendly nature that earned him the deep respect and admiration of his colleagues. He attended Immaculate Heart of Mary School, Edison MS and graduated from Milby HS in 1962, laying the groundwork for a life of purpose, achievement, and profound impact. Rudy was a devoted father of 10 children, J.R., Roseann, Roman, Annette, Rhonda, Peter, Soyla, Ronald, Osiris, and Kiutza, and his unconditional love and dedication inspired a lasting legacy of love that will transcend generations. With 10 children, 20 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, Rudy's family is a vibrant testament to his enduring influence. Throughout his life, Rudy worked tirelessly to provide for his family, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their well-being and prosperity. From his early days as a barber at Leija's Barber shop on Navigation to Leija’s of Clearlake, to his later ventures, including Leija's Building Services, which he founded in the 1980s, Rudy's entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, and innovative mindset inspired countless individuals. His subsequent career as a Realtor, spanning over three decades, enabled him to empower numerous families to achieve the American dream of homeownership. Rudy's influence extended far beyond his professional pursuits, as he instilled in his children the importance of hard work, education, and compassion, inspiring a new generation of leaders. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and various community organizations where he shared his knowledge of entrepreneurial skills and work ethics. His love for golfing and sports brought him immense joy, and his devotion to the Texans, Rockets and Astros was a shared joy with his children. Rudy was in moderate health, surviving Leukemia in 2012, surviving 2 heart attacks in 2020 and 2024, proving that his work here on earth was not done yet. Rudy was quick to share with anyone who would listen about all of God’s goodness and blessing that were bestowed to him throughout his life. Rudy's passing on July 5th, 2025, after a brief illness with Pancreatic Cancer, leaves a profound void, yet his indomitable spirit will continue to inspire, uplift, and motivate those whose lives he touched. As we remember Rudy, we honor his enduring legacy of love, kindness, and resilience, and we take comfort in the knowledge that his memory will live on in the hearts of his devoted children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, inspiring a brighter future for generations to come.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Francisco and Antonia Leija, his brothers, Gilbert and Frank, grandchildren, Nathaniel and Jenica, and he is survived by his sisters, Mary and Stella and his brother, Jesse.

A visitation for Joseph will be held Thursday, July 17, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Crespo, 4136 BROADWAY ST, HOUSTON, TX 77087. A funeral service will occur Friday, July 18, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 7539 Avenue K, Houston, TX 77012. A committal service will occur Friday, July 18, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale St, Houston, TX 77023.