Joel Garza

He was preceded in death by his parents Jose Guadalupe and Tomasita Garza; his sister Odilia Snell; his brothers Joe Garza and Francisco Romeo Garza.

Joel is survived by his loving wife Rosie Garza; his children Heron Garza, Vicente Garza, Idette(Oscar) "Didi" Rodriguez, Crystal(Patrick McMenamy) Garza, Iris(Lucas Acosta) Garza. He is also survived by his grandchildren Hunter, Hannah, Oscar David, John Paul Rodriguez, Brianna and Sarah Garza, Lucas Elias and Lucille Rose Acosta, Kylie, Reagan and Weston McMenamy.

A proud United States Army veteran, he served his country with honor during the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart for his courage and his sacrifice. Following his military service, he lived a life of dedication and hard work, serving for many years with the United States Postal Service until his retirement.

Above all, however, his greatest joy and most treasured legacy were his family. He was a devoted husband and a deeply loving father to five children, whose lives were forever shaped by his strength, wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love. He was a steady and reassuring presence to those who knew him, and family and friends often sought his counsel during life's challenges, knowing they would always find a listening ear, thoughtful advice, and a helping hand.

He also found great joy in the simple beauty of country life. He loved being outdoors on his little ranch, surrounded by the land, his family, and the animals he cared for throughout the years. There were always animals around--chickens, lambs, cows, and for a time, even horses. The ranch was more than simply a place to him; it was a reflection of the life he loved--peaceful, hardworking, and filled with the people and animals that brought him happiness. Those days spent outdoors and the many memories created there will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family.

Most importantly, he was a devoted Christian whose faith guided how he lived, loved, and served others. While we grieve his absence more deeply than words can express, we find comfort in our faith and have no doubt that he is now in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, reunited with the beloved parents and siblings he loved and missed so dearly. His was a life of service, faith, family, and love--and the legacy he leaves behind will live on through all who were blessed to know and love him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a rosary recited at 7:00 pm. Funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission at 12:00 pm. Burial will follow at Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Mission.