Jose G. Murillo

Jose “Joe” Garcia Murillo, 89, passed away surrounded by the family he so deeply loved. Born in Cedillos, Mexico, Joe made his home in Tyler, Texas for the past 52 years — a place where his boundless curiosity, steady hands, and generous spirit became a blessing to everyone who knew him.

When asked his name, he loved to answer with a smile: “Ho Say Can You See…” A man full of humor and heart, Joe had a passion for life and an unshakable determination. He arrived in the United States not speaking a word of English, yet he refused to let that hold him back. He learned the language, became multilingual, and carried a lifelong fascination with how people communicate.

Joe had the mind of an engineer and the soul of a free spirit. He loved to take things apart, discover how they worked, and rebuild them in his own creative way using whatever he had on hand. If something broke — yours or his — he was the one who could fix it. His workshop was a place of invention, tinkering, and endless possibilities.

Above all, Joe was a family man. He adored his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren — 73 in total — and cherished every moment spent with them. Patient, kind, and loving, he led with gentleness and taught by example. He embraced change, sought to learn more about the world, and never stopped living with curiosity and optimism.

Joe shared 68 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Angelita Rodríguez Murillo. Their life together was filled with devotion, resilience, and joy — a partnership that shaped generations.

He will forever be remembered for his favorite sayings — “Oh well, you can’t win them all,” “a pretty, a pretty girl,” and “tontalonton” — words that reflected his humor, humility, and warmth.

Joe Garcia Murillo lived fully, loved deeply, and left an imprint that will continue to guide the many hearts he touched. He will be profoundly missed and forever cherished.

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