With deep love and profound sadness, the family of Jose Abelardo Almanza Sr. announces his passing on February 22, 2026, at the age of 91 years. He was surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 14, 1934, in Alamo, Texas, where he was raised by his parents, Jose and Beatriz Almanza. Jose grew up surrounded by family, community, and the values that shaped the man he would become. He graduated from PSJA, where he proudly played football, an experience that sparked a lifelong love for the sport. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force, serving his country with dedication and pride.
Jose was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to every gathering. He was a loving and dedicated father who always made sure his family’s needs were met. He inspired his children to value education and to pursue their goals with determination. He remained actively involved in their schooling, extracurricular activities, and church life, always showing up with encouragement and pride.
He loved to play his guitar and sing whenever he had the opportunity, filling family moments with music and joy. He also loved to dance, and even with his bad knee and cane, he never missed a chance to enjoy the rhythm and the company of those he loved. He loved all sports and was especially passionate about his Houston Oilers, Dallas Cowboys, and Houston Astros, and he shared with his family a deep enthusiasm for the Houston Texans. He enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, taking trips out of the country, attending various Super Bowls, and visiting several states—all alongside his beloved wife, creating memories they cherished together.
Jose also poured his heart into his work. He started a business with his son and wife, running the family-owned restaurant La Conchita de Laura. What began as a shared dream soon became a true family endeavor, a place filled with laughter, hard work, and countless happy memories for his children and grandchildren.
Jose is survived by the love of his life, his wife Santos Almanza, who remained faithfully by his side throughout their many years together. He is also survived by his daughters, Alina Almanza (Alfred) and Beatriz Almanza Peña (Mario). His grandchildren—Laura Oelschlegel (Christopher), Christina Espinoza (Christopher), Christopher Peña (Brittany), Anthony Peña (Alyssa), Andrew Peña (Brianna), Joey Almanza, Collin Almanza (Bella), and Skylar Almanza—brought him immense joy, as did his greatgrandchildren: Payton Oelschlegel (Shelby), Brayden Oelschlegel, Ayden Oelschlegel, Jaxon Oelschlegel, Nicholas Peña, Mia Peña, Jose Peña, Brayden Williams, Mark Flores, Ryan Flores, and Dylan Aleman. In addition, he was also blessed with bonus great-grandchildren who loved him dearly: Madalyn Carlton, Jaxon Carlton, Channing Carlton, Raiden Carlton, Mason Perez, and Mathew Perez.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Beatriz Almanza, and by his beloved son, Jose (Joe) Almanza Jr. (Guadalupe-surviving wife).
Jose will be remembered for his kindness, his steady presence, his music, his dancing, his love of sports, his adventurous spirit, and the deep love he held for his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Funeral services will be held at Angel Lucy Funeral Home in Port Lavaca on Monday, March 2, 2026. A viewing will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. A Holy Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, a viewing will be held at 9:00-9:45 a.m. with a Holy Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church, with burial to follow at Port Lavaca Cemetery.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the Altus Hospice staff, especially Rebecca and Sally, who cared for Jose with such tenderness and love. They also wish to thank his providers—Christina, Terri, Norma, Olga, and Roxanne—for their dedication and compassion. Special appreciation is extended to Calhoun County Home Health, who first began his care, and especially to Paula, who provided exceptional support, attention, and emotional comfort to both Jose and his family. Each of you was part of his village, and your kindness will never be forgotten.
May he rest in eternal peace, and perpetual light shine upon him.
Under the care of Angel Lucy’s Funeral Home, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300. For more information, visit angellucy.com.