Jose Trevino Jr.

With heavy hearts, we share the peaceful passing of Jose Trevino, Jr., devoted husband, beloved brother and uncle, and a treasured educator whose guidance shaped the lives of thousands and will continue to resonate for generations. Joe passed away on Valentine’s Day, peacefully, surrounded by love, while watching When Harry Met Sally with his wife, Alva Trevino, a cherished annual tradition that perfectly reflected the warmth, joy, love, and deep affection they shared.

Joe’s life was defined by his unwavering dedication to education and his steadfast belief in the potential of every young person. He championed the power of possibility, convinced that with encouragement and opportunity, every student could thrive. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served in numerous roles, from truant officer to administrator, always guided by the conviction that every student deserved support, dignity, opportunity, encouragement and hope.

One of the most defining chapters of his career was his tenure as Principal of Austin High School in Houston. During more than a decade of leadership, he helped the school navigate significant challenges, including overcrowding and underperformance. Through his vision, determination, and deep commitment to students and teachers alike, Austin High experienced improved academic ratings and a renewed sense of pride and school spirit. His open-door policy and his willingness to support students academically, emotionally, and often personally, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Under his steady leadership and tireless advocacy, Austin High’s performance rose, ultimately earning state recognition and moving confidently toward exemplary achievement. His expertise later led him to serve as an Assistant Superintendent with the Houston Independent School District, where his influence expanded across multiple campuses and touched countless more lives.

Beyond the classroom, Joe gave generously of his time and talents in service to his community. He was a proud lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where his years of volunteer work reflected his passion for giving back. He began his involvement on the Speakers Committee as a bilingual translator, helping ensure inclusivity and connection within the organization. He later served on the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest Committee, ultimately retiring as a lifetime committee man, an honor that recognized his long-standing contributions and leadership.

Those who knew Joe will remember his larger-than-life personality, steady presence, and genuine kindness. He believed in hard work, in lifting others up, and in staying true to his roots. Throughout his life, he and Alva shared many adventures, exploring new places, embracing different cultures, and creating treasured memories. Whether it was a quiet getaway or an exciting journey, their travels brought him immense joy and shaped some of his fondest stories.

Joe was also a source of everyday wisdom for his nieces and nephews, always ready with guidance, encouragement, and perspective. Family gatherings were never without one of his unmistakable one-liners, affectionately known as “Joe-isms,” nuggets of humor wrapped in insight that brought laughter, reflection, and sometimes a gentle nudge in the right direction. Those sayings, funny and candid and wise, will be lovingly repeated for years to come.

His legacy lives on in the classrooms he strengthened, the countless graduates who went on to flourish, the educators he mentored, and in the community he served with wisdom, compassion, and heart.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Alva Trevino, family members who adored him, countless friends, and a vast extended community of former students and colleagues who will carry forward his lessons of kindness, dedication, and courage.

The family would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the extraordinary staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center for the compassionate care and support they provided to Joe during his treatment. The dedication, kindness, and professionalism shown by every nurse, technician, caregiver, and member of the support staff brought comfort to him and to our entire family during the most challenging moments. A special thank you goes to Dr. Milind M. Javle, we are forever grateful for the time, attention, and dignity he offered Joe, guiding him with strength and respect throughout his journey.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in honor of Jose Trevino, Jr. to The Center for Mexican-American and Latino/a Studies (CMALS) – University of Houston in support of the Austin High School Academic Achievers Program. To make the donation, you can visit this link: https://giving.uh.edu/class/support-cmals The Center for Mexican-American and Latino/a Studies (CMALS) - University of Houston and select the Austin Achievers Program.

To view a special reflection on Joe’s life and the impact he had on others, please visit:

https://edutube.hccs.edu/media/Jose+Trevi%C3%83%C2%B1o/0_5coz23jl/49479862?fbclid=IwY2xjawQBfQxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFPSkhpRTNBOFRtdG95NWZ4c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpFwQJBGK3SiUzXpaDpGHIrhsiasiBXy3kVciGYqujNl6YXmpCB3nuc7fDpu_aem_cW9NvoH815SzyVD6RAdStQ

A visitation will be held at Heights Funeral Home, located at 1317 Heights Blvd., Houston, TX 77008, on February 26, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Rosary Service will take place at the same venue on February 26, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm.

The Funeral Mass is scheduled for February 27, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at All Saints Catholic Church, located at 215 E. 10th St., Houston, TX 77008.