Joe M. López

Joe M. (“Jomain”) López passed away on July 30, 2023.  His loved ones are only beginning to grasp the magnitude of his death. Those impacted by his sudden loss include his children (Bonnie, Monica, and Joey); his grandkids (Auggie and Nora); his children’s partners (Jennifer and Damaris); his step-grandkids (Natalia, Kennedy, Dom, and Rockie); his sisters (Luz Carrillo, Carmen Leyva, Lupe Montes, Connie Aguayo, Rosie Hernandez) and extended members of the López, Gonzales, and Casillas clans; many comadres and compadres in El Paso’s Lower Valley; numerous co-workers and friends dating back to his old days at Farah Manufacturing; and his lifelong friend, Rita López.

Joe loved many things. Dogs, especially mean, little ones. Reading everything: the local newspaper, the National Geographic, the church bulletin, every single historic highway marker on a road trip. Ranting at the evening news and then laughing at it alongside Stephen Colbert. Irrigating his father’s alfalfa fields or tending his backyard garden to ensure every family member had more than enough calabacita, melón, and sandía to last through Advent. Observing sunsets and the night sky. Driving his ancient Toyota pickup all over Ysleta to check in on everyone. Bringing gifts to his fan club, the monjitas at the Good Shepherd Monastery. Goofy hats. A big bowl of albóndiga soup. A silly joke. Light beer.

He treasured his parents (Eduvijes and José), his former in-laws (Luisita and Rafael), and all elders. He spoiled his grandchildren and enjoyed teasing his sisters. He sought and maintained friendships with people from all walks of life. He had a strong work ethic, rarely missing a day of work up until his retirement at 72. He indulged his artistic side in metal art and graffiti (seriously!) post-retirement. And, of course, he was a proud Army veteran and one of the most patriotic Americans you ever met.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Venancio, Jose (Pepito), Antonio Eufemio (Femi) and Ramon (Ray).

Adios, Joe. We love you and miss you. Be at peace.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that any donations be made in his name to The Good Shepherd Monastery, 8824 Old County Drive, El Paso, Texas 79907.

A Gathering will be held from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM with a Rosary starting at 7:00 PM on Friday, August 11, 2023 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church (Mission), 131 S Zaragoza Rd, El Paso, Texas 79907. A Mass will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church (Mission). A Graveside will follow at 11:15 AM at Mount Carmel Cemetery, 401 S Zaragoza Rd, El Paso, Texas 79907.