Jose Medina Garza

Jose was born on January 9, 1950, in Kingsville, Texas, to Israel Alaniz Garza and Elena Trejo Medina. He was one of five siblings and carried the love and strength of his close-knit family with him throughout his life. A proud graduate of Van Vleck High School, Jose often joked that he graduated 3rd in his class—out of a class of 3. He later attended Texas A&I University in Kingsville, where he studied engineering and mastered the art of playing pool, always saying with a grin, "ya tu sabes."

On September 19, 1970, Jose married the love of his life, Alicia Acosta Garza, in Bay City, Texas, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned over five decades. They later renewed their vows on April 2, 1982, at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Clute, Texas, a testament to their enduring love and faith. Together they raised four children: Jose Acosta Garza, Julian Acosta Garza, Laura Lee Perez, and Elena Rae Martinez.

Jose dedicated 35 years of service as a Chemical Operator at DOW Chemical’s MAG Cell 1 in Freeport, Texas. Beyond his professional life, he generously gave back to his community by officiating little league baseball, softball, volleyball, and basketball, continuing his service well into retirement.

A Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus since March 7, 1989, Jose remained a lifetime member, guided by faith and fellowship. His heart also beat for Texas sports—he was a loyal fan of the Houston Astros and Houston Texans, proudly holding season tickets since the Texans’ inaugural season.

Jose’s joy was found in the everyday moments: dancing with Alicia, hosting chickenfoot games with family, or sitting around a Texas Hold’em table. He supported small businesses with regular family breakfast outings and cherished his role as Grandpa to his grandchildren, attending their games, recitals, and school events with pride and joy. And for those who truly knew him—his appreciation for the "great states" of Nevada and Louisiana earned him a Diamond Membership (if you know, you know).

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Israel and Elena, his brother Mario Garza, sister Sylvia Rodriguez, brothers-in-law Juan Antonio Rodriguez and Roel Villarreal, and his great-granddaughter Magdalena Perez.

Jose is survived by his loving wife Alicia, sister Diana Villarreal, brother Daniel Medina Garza and wife Gloria, and sister-in-law Guadalupe Badillo Garza. He leaves behind his four children: Jose (Shana), Julian, Laura (George), and Elena (Robert), and eleven cherished grandchildren: Faith (Cody), Daniel, Donte, Asencion, Gabriella, Layla, Laney, Addison, Rosslyn, Elijah, and Charlotte. He will also be lovingly remembered by his honorary family member Eddie Tidwell, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Jose’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His humor, humility, loyalty, and generous spirit made him a pillar of his family and a blessing to his community.

A visitation for Jose will be held Thursday, July 17th, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Restwood Funeral Home, 1038 West Plantation Dr., Clute, TX 77531, with the Rosary starting at 6:30 PM. A funeral service will occur Friday, July 18th, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 100 Oak Dr S, Lake Jackson, TX 77566. A graveside service will occur Friday, July 18th, 2025, from 11:45 AM to 12:30 PM at Restwood Memorial Park, 1038 West Plantation Dr., Clute, Texas 77531.

Serving as Pallbearers are nephews; Adam Rodriguez, Mike Cortez, Ken Smith, Eddie Garza, Ruben Balles and Godson; Daniel Garcia. Honorary pallbearer is Eddie Tidwell.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23