Joe Peña Casillas, age 88, of San Antonio, Texas, entered eternal rest peacefully on May 4, 2026. Born on July 9, 1937, to Jose and Josefa Casillas, Joe lived a life rooted in love, hard work, devotion, and quiet strength. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and unwavering dedication to the people he loved most.

To many, Joe was far more than an uncle. He lovingly stepped into the role of a father figure for many of his nieces and nephews, offering guidance, support, patience, and unconditional love throughout their lives. He was the steady presence family could always depend on — the one who showed up without hesitation whenever someone needed help, comfort, or encouragement.

Joe devoted much of his life to caring for his family and remained a source of strength to his siblings for decades. Beneath his strong and hardworking nature was a gentle, caring soul that deeply touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He also had a special love for animals, especially his loyal dogs, who were constant companions throughout his life. They brought him comfort, joy, and companionship, and he cared for them with tremendous affection and devotion.

Known by many as the "Ultimate Handyman," Joe had a gift for fixing just about anything. Whether working on cars, carpentry projects, or helping family and neighbors with repairs, he generously shared his talents and knowledge with anyone in need. Friends and loved ones always knew they could count on him.

Joe was also no stranger to hard work. Each year during harvest season, he traveled to Michigan to pick crops for several months, a reflection of his strong work ethic, resilience, and determination. Despite life's challenges, he carried himself with humility, warmth, and a quiet charisma that made people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, the love, lessons, and memories he gave so freely will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. His legacy of compassion, perseverance, loyalty, and family devotion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Joe is now reunited in heaven with his beloved parents, Jose and Josefa Casillas; his brother, Frank P. Casillas; his sisters, Beatrice, Mary, Lupe, Evangeline "Mita," Lily, Sally Casillas, and Susan Lagunas; and his nephew, Alex Lagunas.

He is lovingly remembered by his nephews Arthur and wife Fela Lagunas, and Frank M. Casillas; his nieces Jennifer Casillas-Gutierrez, Linda Henley, Lisa and husband John Valdez, Catherine and husband Michael Hernandez, Denise and husband George Salazar, Judy Lagunas, and Alexa Lagunas. He also leaves behind numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; dear friends from his neighborhood community, and his beloved pets, all of whom brought great joy to his life.

Monday, May 25, 2026

A memorial service for Joe will be held at 11:00 a.m.

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church

3107 N. St. Mary's St.

San Antonio, Texas 78212

*Please note, no services will be held at the funeral home.*