Jessie Joe Mendoza

Jessie Joe was born to Francisca and Antonio Mendoza on December 2, 1948, in Dallas, Texas. Jessie was the youngest of seven children and born with many physical and mental disabilities. Despite his challenges, Jessie lived a full blessed life who made it his mission to set out on daily cycling adventures to meet old and new friends, far and wide, from Field City to Farmers Branch.

Jessie especially loved being around and protecting children. He would volunteer as a school cross guard at the neighborhood bus stop. In Jessie’s older years when walking became too difficult, his sisters who cared for and loved him dearly, would take him out in his wheelchair to watch the school buses go by. The bus drivers would honk and the kids would yell and wave out the windows to him has they drove by.

Special Abilities of North Texas welcomed Jessie Joe into their day out program where he made many very special friendships. They also introduced him to the Special Olympics. Jessie earned several ribbons and medals for his team throughout the years. Sports were a big part of Jessie’s life. He loved watching the Rangers, Mavericks and Stars play, and of course, the love for his Dallas Cowboys was strong! Needless to say, he would be all geared up head-to-toe on game day in his favorite color, blue! Win or lose, he was the ultimate Cowboy fan. When Jessie was younger, he never was able to play on any sports teams, but he did love running up and down the soccer sidelines helping flag games. He would kick the soccer balls, throw baseballs and run bases. He loved going to the fields to watch all his nieces and nephews play.

On any given day, he would spend his day watching tv, listening to his music cassette, playing his piano or computer and building puzzles. The simplest of things, like his “morning time” routine with his sisters, would put a big smile on his face. Exercise was made fun by honking horns and ringing bells. However, family made him the happiest. His eyes would light up when family would come visit, especially when all his nieces and nephews would stop by. Jessie’s faith, love of life, smile and laughter lifted the hearts of many throughout his lifetime.

Our family would like to express how thankful we are to his sisters that cared for him on a daily basis throughout his entire life. Dolores, Brada, and Lupe are his Angels on earth that made sure that their little brother received everything that his heart desired and more.

Jessie is survived by Dolores Jaramillo of The Colony, TX, Aurora Benavidez of Dallas, TX, Mary Alva of The Colony, TX, Salvador Mendoza of The Colony, TX, Carmen Mendoza of The Colony, TX, and John Mendoza and his wife, Sonnie, of Plano, TX; as well as his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends.

Visitation for Jessie Joe will be from 5-7 PM, with Rosary at 6 PM, on Friday, January 21, at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home; Service will be held at 12 noon Saturday, January 22, at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home, Chapel East, both at 7405 W. Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX.