Jesus Lopez Ybarra

Jesse was born on August 29, 1943, in Austin, Texas, to the late Francisco and Maria Ybarra.

Jesse proudly served his country, beginning his military career in the United States Marine Corps before continuing his service in the United States Army, from which he eventually retired. His dedication to serving his country continued even after his military retirement, as he went on to work in civil service at Fort Hood until his retirement in 2006.

Jesse was a man who enjoyed staying busy and could rarely sit still for long. He had a passion for riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle and attending motorcycle rallies, where he enjoyed the freedom of the open road and the camaraderie that came with it. At home, he was always working on one project or another. He built a deck, extended the patio, and took great pride in caring for his home and yard. Jesse was meticulous when it came to his lawn, and his yard was always beautifully maintained.

One of Jesse’s greatest joys was his three beloved dogs, Dallas, Austin, and Harley. He had a special place in his heart for each of them and loved nothing more than spoiling them with treats. He could always be counted on to sneak them a little something extra. His dogs brought him tremendous joy, companionship, and unconditional love, and he cherished the time he spent with them.

In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by six brothers, Faustino, Francisco, Bernardino, Manuel, Gavino, and Joseph; and one sister, Terry.

Jesse leaves behind his loving wife of 26 years, Theresa, of Killeen, Texas; his son, Robert Ybarra, and wife, Michelle, of Nolanville, Texas; stepdaughter, Stephanie O’Brien, and husband, Patrick, of Crandall, Texas; and stepson, Charles Desmarais, and wife, Calie, of Killeen, Texas. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Madison Ybarra, Sydney O’Brien, Keller Desmarais, and Bowen Desmarais.

He is further survived by three sisters, Petra Powell of Irving, Texas; Esperanza Perez of Austin, Texas; and Judith Cerda of Austin, Texas, along with numerous other family members, friends, and loved ones who will deeply miss him.

Jesse will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his hardworking nature, his love of motorcycles, his pride in his home and yard, and most of all, the love he shared with his family, friends, and beloved dogs. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Visitation will be held at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen on September 22nd, 2026, from 2pm to 4pm.

We invite all who knew and loved Jesse to join us in honoring his life, celebrating his memory, and saying a final farewell to a man who will be deeply missed but never forgotten.