Jose "Joe" Merced LeDesma Jr.

Jose “Joe” Merced LeDesma Jr., age 87, entered into eternal rest on Monday, July 08, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. He was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and will be dearly missed. Jose (Joe) is preceded in death by his parents: Jose Merced LeDesma Sr. and Emma Burrola, his daughter: Julie LeDesma, and his sister: Luz Fisher. He is survived by his beloved wife: Juanita LeDesma, his children: Joseph Merced LeDesma III and Janet LeDesma, his grandchildren: Joseph Merced LeDesma IV, Jackie Becerra, and Jazlyn LeDesma, as well as his great-grandchildren: Joseph LeDesma and Jace LeDesma. He is also survived by many extended family and friends to cherish and honor his memory. 

Joe was a true American Patriot who proudly served his country in various capacities over a course of many decades. Upon graduating college at Texas Western, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the United States Army in 1958. He served proudly in the Infantry in Korea. demonstrating exceptional dedication and bravery. His active and reserve duty covered 1958-1994, where he rose to the rank of Colonel. In addition to his various military accomplishments, Joe was also a proud graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.

Joe also proudly worked for the U. S. Customs Service from 1963-2003. During this period, he built many lifelong friendships and served in various positions, rising to the rank of Supervisory Customs Inspector. He was instrumental in the creation of the first Contraband Enforcement Team (CET) and helped build the Firearms Safety Program for the Customs Service. 

Joe will be missed dearly by all who loved and knew him.

A Visitation will be held from 4:00pm to 8:00pm on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Sunset Funeral Homes-West with a Rosary to commence at 6:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:15am on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at St. Jude Catholic, 4006 Hidden Way. A Graveside Service will follow at 1:00pm at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave.

A Livestream will be available through Sunset Funeral Homes' Facebook page through the following link:

https://www.facebook.com/sunsetfuneralhome/

(An account is not needed to virtually attend)

Services are entrusted to Sunset Funeral Homes-West, 480 N. Resler Dr.