Miguel Benito Estrada Jr.

Known to many as “Mike”, Miguel was preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 68 years, Laura.

Born in El Paso, TX on March 11, 1930, Miguel graduated from El Paso High School and continued his education by attending and graduating from the College of Pharmacy at the University of Texas at Austin, class of 1953. Upon graduating as a pharmacist, he served his country in the US Army branch for 2 years, serving time abroad during the Korean War.

When Miguel returned to El Paso, he worked in various local pharmacies including learning much from his time at McKee’s Pharmacy. Then in 1958, Miguel, with the support of his father Miguel B. Estrada, SR., opened his own independent pharmacy on the corner of Alameda and Raynolds. Alameda Thrifty Pharmacy is still open and carrying on Miguel’s legacy as the oldest operating independent pharmacy in El Paso.

Patients would walk in yelling “Mike” or “Mr. Mike” when they would see Miguel at the counter. He loved working and would open the pharmacy every day for many years, including holidays and would stay late to the frustration of his lovely wife. Miguel would help anyone in need with medication costs, an extra dollar, or even just an ear to listen. Miguel is best remembered for treating all patients equal, including the numerous patients with mental health conditions he served when his pharmacy was the only one participating with El Paso MHMR (now Emergence Health Network). At his pharmacy, these patients were not made to feel “weird” or “bothersome” but accepted and seen and cared for just like family would be. Many to this day still ask for him at the pharmacy.

When Miguel was not counting tablets or verifying prescriptions, he enjoyed playing pool with his family, traveling (especially to Las Vegas!) and eating out around town at different restaurants with his wife, Laura, and any children or grandchildren who decided to join them that day. He was an avid stock trader and even into his 90s wanted a computer to access his portfolios. He bought an electric car at 90 years old and loved driving around town in it.

Miguel is survived by his six children; Silvia, Norma (Steve), Irma, Sandy, Mike (Analivia), and Mark (Claudia); 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Tuesday, April 7, 2026 from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm with a rosary at 7:00 pm at Funeraria Del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave. El Paso, Texas 79903. Funeral mass will be celebrated Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 12:00 pm at St. Pius X Church, 1050 N. Clark Dr. El Paso, Texas 79905 with interment to follow at Evergreen Alameda Cemetery, 4301 Alameda Ave, El Paso, TX 79905.