Jose Luis Chavez Sr.'s Obituary
Jose Luis Chavez Sr., 70, passed away on September 29, 2025, at McAllen Medical Center.
Jose was born on December 30, 1954, in Weslaco, Texas, where he spent his childhood surrounded by family and friends. He often shared fond memories of his parents and grandparents, and his stories reflected the deep love he had for his roots. From a young age, Jose showed artistic talent and enjoyed drawing. He also loved spending time outdoors with his mother, who had a passion for gardening—a love that became a lifelong hobby and, eventually, a personal trademark.
Jose grew up next door to his future wife, Sylvia Bazan. After Sylvia graduated from nursing school, the two married and built a beautiful life together, raising their two children, Jose Jr. and Velma. Jose began working for the City of Weslaco, a job he genuinely enjoyed. His dedication to his community was evident—whenever storms or hurricanes struck, Jose was among the first to volunteer, working tirelessly to keep everyone safe.
Outside of work, Jose was happiest at home. He found joy in the outdoors and took meticulous care of his yard, filling it with a variety of plants and keeping it perfectly manicured. He took pride in maintaining a clean and orderly home and loved nothing more than relaxing outside with a cold beer, watching football after a day of yardwork. Family gatherings, Sunday evenings, and Dallas Cowboys games were highlights of his week.
Jose adored his children and grandchildren. Though he preferred to stay home, he encouraged Sylvia to take the kids on adventures and made sure everything was spotless and welcoming for their return. South Padre Island held a special place in his heart, and many Fridays were spent picking the kids up from school with the truck packed and ready for a spontaneous beach getaway.
A man of quiet faith, Jose was raised in the Catholic Church. Though he didn’t attend every week, he prayed often and was known to say, “Your church is anywhere that you pray—and so is God.”
Jose will be remembered for his faithfulness, hard work, kindness, and strength. He was generous with his time, always ready to help others, and famously punctual.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sylvia; his parents, Federico and Margarita (Rodriguez) Chavez; his son, Jose Luis Chavez Jr.; his sister, Maria Van Vactor; and his sister-in-law, Janie Chavez.
Jose is survived by his daughter, Velma Lopez; his siblings, Rosalva Saldana (Leo), Elvira Cuellar (Guillermo), Imelda Lopez (Lico); his brothers, Rolando Chavez (Gloria), Fred Chavez (Linda), Oscar Chavez, Jesse Chavez (Janie+), Rudy Chavez (Mary); his brother-in-law, Steve Van Vactor; his grandchildren, Leola Mireya Chavez, Natalia Anna Lee Chavez, Aaron Anthony Lopez (Stephanie Alaniz), and Adrian Lopez; and his great-grandchildren, Ayven Andrew, Ayden Anthony, and Aleyna Lopez. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 5th, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a rosary at 7:00 p.m. at McCaleb Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 6th, at 10 a.m. at San Martin de Porres Catholic Church. Jose will be laid to rest beside his wife at Highland Memorial Park.
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