Joe L. Leija
August 28, 1949 ~ January 24, 2026
Born in:
Mereta, Texas
Resided in:
San Antonio, Texas
Joe L. Leija, a loving and devoted husband and father, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. He was born on August 28, 1949, in Mereta, Texas, and lived a life defined by service, faith, generosity, and unconditional love for others.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty and integrity. Following his military service, he continued to serve others through his career as an employee of the United States Government in Administration. A man of strong Christian faith, Joe lived his beliefs daily through kindness, humility, and compassion, and an unwavering trust in God.
Joe had a true artist’s soul and found great joy in painting, using his creativity as a form of expression and reflection. One of the most defining aspects of his life was his heart for children—he adopted several young men throughout his lifetime, earning him the affectionate nickname “Father Abraham.” His home and heart were always open, and he gave selflessly to anyone in need. Joe was known for his great sense of humor, his willingness to help without hesitation, and his unwavering love for his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Benito Leija and Josefina Morales, brothers Alex leija, Joe Leija, Juan Leija, Sr., Joseph Mendoza; as well as his beloved fur baby, Marco.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of over thirty-seven years, Maria G. Leija; his daughters, Vanessa Padron (CJ) and Alyssa Rodriguez (Pedro); his surviving siblings, Rosie Leija, Lupe Leija, Liz Leija, Janie Luna, Victoria Mendoza, and Larry Covarrubias; along with numerous extended family members and friends who were blessed by his presence.
Joe was a proud and loving grandfather to Alina M., Cristelo P., Elijah P., Aniah R., Nathaniel R., and Mia R., each of whom brought him immense joy and purpose.
Joe L. Leija will be remembered as a man of faith, service, and profound love—a true patriarch whose legacy lives on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all that knew him.
Services
Visitation: February 10, 2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room: Chapel
MeadowLawn Funeral Home
5611 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX United States
78220
www.meadowlawnmemorialpark.com
Funeral Service: February 11, 2026 11:00 am
Room: Chapel
MeadowLawn Funeral Home
5611 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX United States
78220
www.meadowlawnmemorialpark.com
Graveside with Military Honors: February 11, 2026 1:00 pm
Room: Pavilion #1
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd.
San Antonio, TX United States
78209

Guess we can’t meet for lunch, but when we meet again, it will be with our Heavenly Father. Farewell my Friend n Brother. Go in Peace and walk in hand with Jesus to meet with our heavenly Father.
Thank you, for taking care of the Grandkids, when I wasn’t able to. I have a Friend, his name is Jesus he will meet you in Heaven. Amen 🙏✝️
Sister Leija, Vanessa, Alyssa, my family will always remember brother Joe, that infectious smile and laugh, his sincere friendship, and the man God used to make us feel part of his family. He will always have a special place in our hearts. Love you all.
Linda Salazar