Jorge Roberto Quesada Arellano

Jorge Roberto Quesada Arellano, a distinguished physician and cherished family man, passed away on July 31, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on May 13, 1947, in Mexico City, Mexico, Jorge’s life was marked by a deep commitment to medicine, a profound dedication to his family, and a passion for a multitude of pursuits.

Jorge’s journey began with his service in the Centro de Adiestramiento Batallón 44 at Campo Militar No. 1, D.F., within the Ejercito Mexicano from 1965 to 1966. His pursuit of excellence continued through his education and professional career. He earned his medical degree from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) and completed his residency in internal medicine at the Instituto Nacional de la Nutrición Salvador Zubirán. He further specialized with an oncology fellowship at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. He then spent over 40 years making significant contributions to the field of oncology, first at M.D Anderson Cancer Center, then in private practice at OnCol Therapeutics and finally as a full professor at UTHealth Houston. Jorge was a valued member of prestigious organizations including the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), American Society of Hematology (ASH), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and the American College of Physicians (ACP). His innovative work, particularly his use of alpha interferon as a novel therapy for hairy cell leukemia, earned him numerous awards and recognition.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jorge was a man of exceptional talent and diverse interests. He was a gifted artist and sculptor, a skilled guitarist, and an avid swimmer and scuba diver. His love for movies, musicals, and literature was matched only by his devotion to his family. Jorge was married to his beloved wife, Rocio K. Quesada, for 50 years. Together, they shared a life filled with love and joy, and their son, Andrés E. Quesada, was a source of immense pride and affection for him.

Jorge’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a caring, honest, and humble individual who touched the lives of many with his dedication and kindness. His impact was felt deeply by his patients and colleagues alike, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Jorge is survived by his devoted wife, Rocio Kuri Quesada; his son, Andrés Ernesto Quesada; his sister, Patricia Laura Quesada de González; and his brother, Jose Antonio Quesada Arellano. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jorge Bernardo Ramón Quesada Ovando and Maria Ernestina Arellano Maciel, and his brother, Pablo Bernardo Quesada Arellano.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Adan Rios, Dr. James M. Reuben, and Alma Villareal for their exceptional care and support during Jorge’s illness.

Jorge Roberto Quesada Arellano will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in honor of Dr. Jorge Roberto Quesada Arellano. You can contribute at https://www.lls.org/.

A visitation for Jorge will be held Tuesday, August 13, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478. A funeral mass will occur Wednesday, August 14, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Laurence Catholic Church, 3100 Sweetwater Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479. A graveside service will occur Wednesday, August 14, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home and Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077.