Joseph Esparza

Brother Joseph Esparza, CSC, 62, a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross, Moreau Province, passed away in Austin, TX on August 19, 2014. The son of Reynaldo Esparza and Nora Ruiz Esparza, Brother Joseph was a native of San Antonio and a proud descendant of Gregorio Esparza, a hero of the Battle of the Alamo. Joseph attended elementary school at Christ the King Parish, and graduated from Holy Cross High School where he came to know the Brothers of Holy Cross. He was first received into the Congregation in 1973 and professed his final vows in 1982. A graduate of St. Edward's University, Brother Joseph taught mathematics, chemistry and religion in Holy Cross high schools, and was the first Executive Director for Holy Cross Center in San Antonio. After earning a MA in theology at the University of Notre Dame, he devoted himself to faith education. He served at Holy Family, St. Paul and Christ the King parishes. He also served in several capacities for the Religious Education Office of the Archdiocese of San Antonio. Brother Joseph worked with Holy Cross Family Ministries, first with Family Theatre Productions in Los Angeles, then at the Father Peyton Family Institute in North Easton, MA. He returned to San Antonio in 2011.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Louise Mary McNay. Brother Joseph is survived by his sister, Laura Ann Esparza of Austin; and his brothers, Dr. Robert A. Esparza of Buda, TX, Dr. Ray J. Esparza of Austin, and Michael C. Esparza of Cedar Park, TX; as well as their families.

Visitation will be held from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm on Sunday, August 24, 2014 at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 2620 South Congress with Wake Service to begin at 7:00 pm and Rosary to follow.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Monday, August 25, 2014 at St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic Church, 126 W Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78704. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery, Austin, TX

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, August 30, 2014, 12:00 noon at Christ the King Church, 2623 Perez St. San Antonio, TX.