Joel Hinojosa Jr's Obituary
Joel Hinojosa Jr.
Joel Hinojosa Jr., a man known for his "heart of gold" and unbreakable spirit, passed away on January 31, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Born on October 21, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joel Hinojosa and the late Virgilia Villarreal, Joel lived a life defined by his own terms and a relentless drive to never give up.
To know Joel was to know a man who was always smiling and ready with a joke. He was an adventurer at heart, finding peace in the outdoors and excitement in discovering new places. Whether he was working on his Fords or listening to his favorite music, Joel’s presence brought energy and warmth to those around him. Above all, he was a helper; he was the first person to step up for anyone in need, leaving a legacy of kindness that will not be forgotten.
Joel is preceded in death by his mother, Virgilia Hinojosa, and his son, Joel Hinojosa III.
He is survived by his father, Joel Hinojosa; his son, Carlos Hinojosa; his sister, Elizabeth Flores, and her husband, Daniel; grandson Cristian Hinojosa; his nephews, Daniel and Eric; and his niece, Gigi Flores. He also leaves behind his childhood friend and girlfriend, Laura Santos-Coy, along with a large, loving circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Joel fought hard until the very end and lived every moment to the fullest. He will be missed beyond measure.
Joel Hinojosa Jr., un hombre conocido por su gran corazón y su espíritu inquebrantable, falleció el 31 de enero de 2026 en Houston, Texas. Nacido el 21 de octubre de 1974 en Chicago, Illinois, hijo de Joel Hinojosa y la difunta Virgilia Villarreal, Joel vivió una vida a su manera, con una determinación incansable y sin rendirse jamás.
Conocer a Joel era conocer a un hombre siempre sonriente y con una broma a flor de labios. Era un aventurero de corazón, que encontraba paz en la naturaleza y emoción al descubrir nuevos lugares. Ya fuera trabajando en sus autos Ford o escuchando su música favorita, la presencia de Joel irradiaba energía y calidez a quienes lo rodeaban. Sobre todo, era una persona servicial; siempre era el primero en ayudar a quien lo necesitara, dejando un legado de bondad que no será olvidado.
A Joel le precedieron en la muerte su madre, Virgilia Hinojosa, y su hijo, Joel Hinojosa III.
Le sobreviven su padre, Joel Hinojosa; su hijo, Carlos Hinojosa; su hermana, Elizabeth Flores, y su esposo, Daniel; su nieto Cristian Hinojosa; sus sobrinos, Daniel y Eric; y su sobrina, Gigi Flores. También le sobreviven su amiga de la infancia y pareja, Laura Santos-Coy, junto con un gran círculo de tíos, tías, primos y amigos que lo querían mucho.
Joel luchó con valentía hasta el final y vivió cada momento intensamente. Se le echará de menos muchísimo.
What’s your fondest memory of Joel?
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Share a story where Joel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joel you’ll never forget.
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