John Alex Pena, affectionately known as “Juan,” age 67, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away on August 12, 2025. He was born on June 4, 1958, in Galveston, Texas, to Belia Licerio Sandoval and Jesus C. Sandoval. He proudly attended King High School.
Juan worked for many years in commercial glass installation with companies such as Binswanger Glass, and later in plumbing with Gentry and other local plumbing companies. He took great pride in his work and always gave his best effort.
In his free time, Juan enjoyed playing pool, where his skill and natural ability made him tough to beat. He was also a loyal sports fan, faithfully supporting the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros. He cherished the simple joys of life, BBQing with family and friends, watching football, baseball, and boxing, and relaxing on the deck of his apartment, which he jokingly referred to as his “condo.” Holidays were especially important to him, as were moments filled with family, laughter, and togetherness. His love for telling jokes and his unforgettable, contagious laugh will be remembered by all who knew him.
Though Juan and his former wife, Nelda, divorced many years ago, they remained closely connected through their family. Juan often expressed his enduring love for her with humor and playful teasing, which brought laughter to his close relatives. Above all else, he was devoted to his family. A highlight of his life occurred just a few months ago when he was able to meet his first son for the very first time after 50 years.
Juan will be remembered as a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren, keeping up with their lives, celebrating birthdays, and sharing in their accomplishments. His loyalty, love, and presence will be deeply missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Belia Licerio Sandoval and Jesus C. Sandoval; his sister, Belia Sandoval Armadillo; and his brothers, Jessie L. Sandoval and Ramiro Licerio.
He is survived by his children: John Alex (Helen) Pena, Jr., Monica Marie (Gabriel) Martinez, Rose Marie (Paul) Cantu, and John Daniel Leal; his siblings: Ralph Licerio, Maria Lopez, Joe Sandoval, Janie Dexter, and Alfred Sandoval; grandchildren: Lincoln Jade Pena, John Alex Pena III, Solana Ann Martinez, Maddox Joel Martinez, Cailah Nicole Cantu, Cassandra Ariah (Cong) Tran, Jessica Renee (Daniel) Schimmel, Paul Gilbert Cantu II, Jennifer Nicole Cordo, Van Owen Leal, Justine Bethany Leal, and Luke Halen Leal; and great-grandchildren: Knox Vinh Tran, Onyx Vinh Tran, Sonny Raye Schimmel, Quinn Rowan Schimmel, and Meeko Rene Cantu.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who prayed for Juan during his final days. His legacy of laughter, love, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
