Jose Salvador Avila

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jose Salvador Avila, Sr. (Joe), who was called home by our Heavenly Father on Monday, July 28th, 2025, at the age of 93. He peacefully left us, surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was pre-deceased by his parents, Jose Maria Avila and Juana Castro Avila, as well as his siblings who passed in infancy. He is also reunited with his beloved brothers: Carlos, Melchor, Gamaliel, and Refugio, and sisters: Noemi and Graciela. His wife of 60 years, the love of his life, Lucy, also preceded him in death in 2014. In 2020, Joe suffered the loss of his sons, Hugo Avila and Dimitri Avila Sr.(Silvia), who were called to heaven before him.

Joe leaves behind a family that will cherish his memory for generations to come. He is survived by his children: Joe Avila Jr. (Rosa), Robert Avila, Sr. (Irene), and his daughter Virginia “Ginger” Avila. He was a proud grandfather to Christine, Analicia (Mario), Andrea, and Vanessa, and a loving grandfather to his grandsons Dimitri Jr., Joey III (Crystal), and Robert Jr. (Shavonne). His great-grandchildren: Matthew, Claire, Oliver, Anya, Viani, Inez Lucia, Zoe, and Andre will carry his memory forward.

Joe also leaves behind many family friends, including the Zepeda, Soto, and Betancourt families, as well as Rene Lara and Suzie Avila, all of whom mourn his passing. He was dearly cared for by his faithful caregivers, Nurse Leo, Araceli “Cesi,” and Reyna, whose kindness and dedication are deeply appreciated. His nieces and nephews, including his closest niece, Ruth Garcia Orive (pre-deceased), are praying for his soul.

A proud Veteran of the U.S. Army and Army National Guard, Joe had a wealth of history and stories to share with anyone willing to listen. Whether it was about his time in service or the “old” neighborhood of Brownsville, Joe could always provide fascinating details and memories.

Pallbearers are Dimitri Avila Jr.(grandson), Robert Avila Jr.(grandson), Ben Orive Jr.(nephew), Roberto “Bobby” Munoz (nephew), Joe Avila Jr. (son), Robert Avila Sr. (son), Luis Carlos Zepeda Jr.(family friend), and Rene Lara (family friend).

Friends and family are invited to honor Joe during the upcoming services at Trevino Funeral Home located at 1355 Old Port Isabel Rd, Brownsville, TX. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a Rosary at 7:00 PM. Visitation will resume on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 from 8:15 AM to 9:15 AM with Mass at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, followed by his burial at Buena Vista Burial Park at 11:00 AM.

Joe will be deeply missed, but his legacy will be carried on with love, laughter, and the many wonderful stories he shared. May he rest in peace.