John Gabriel Mendoza Jr.

John was born to his loving parents, John Gabriel Mendoza Sr. and Tabitha Rivera. From the moment he arrived on July 11, 2007 at Brazosport Memorial Hospital in Lake Jackson, Texas, John filled our lives with energy, curiosity, and love.

John was a full-time student at Texas State University, having just completed his freshman year. He was a 2025 graduate of Brazoswood High School. John was full of energy and life. He had a love for sports, he played football from the age of 5 years until he graduated, along with powerlifting, basketball, baseball and always enjoyed golfing. He loved sports cars, fishing and connecting with nature. His generosity extended far beyond words — he gave time, encouragement, and a listening ear to anyone who needed it. He was an excellent student, making the Dean’s List his freshman year of college. His grades were important to him. While in college, John met a network of people, where he was able to have one of the best experiences of his life-He always spoke of giving back, volunteer work and the impact it made on the people he assisted- thank you to his brothers. John was excited about his college adventure and his future. He had a goal to graduate and go to work with his Dad at Dow Chemical.

John was a little brother, although taller than all, and an amazing uncle to Maisy Kat.

John had many friends, including several he met in kindergarten, who were more than best friends, but brothers to him. He loved them so much and loved spending time with them, playing basketball and just hanging out.

He was full of love and laughter. His hero was his Dad and he was his. John was also a cologne “connoisseur,”. He loved his Dad, Mom, siblings, friends, and family. His car was his pride and joy.

John is survived by his parents, John Gabriel Mendoza Sr. and Tabitha (Rivera) Gomez; Grandparents, George and Sylvia Mendoza of Lake Jackson; Grandparents, Ed “Leo” and Rosario Rivera of Lake Jackson; sisters, Allyson, Juliana and Devyn; Brother, Julian; Neice, Maisy Kat; Aunt, Glenda Mendoza (Ricardo); Uncle, Rudy Mendoza; Aunt and Godmother, Emma Rivera; Uncle, Raul Rivera; Uncle, Anthony Rivera; numerous cousins, great aunts and uncles, and friends.

Serving as pallbearers are Julian Martinez, Jaydus Hanks, Kyle Mathews, Gannon Lennon, Isacc Soto and Diego Melendez.

Honorary pallbearers are Misael Reyes, Brandon Guerra and Ja’vonte Ricks.

A celebration of John’s life will take place at Restwood Funeral Home in Clute, TX at 11:00 am, officiated by Tommy Furnari on June 13th. Afterwards, at the Lake Jackson Civic Center, we ask friends to share a meal or a memory-the things he loved the most. Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 pm June 12th.