Jesus Thomas Campos

Jesus Thomas Campos, Husband, Father, Brother, Veteran and Community Leader, Jesus Thomas Campos of Houston died peacefully at home Friday, July 22, 2011. He was two weeks shy of his 90th birthday. He was born on August 6, 1921 in Goose Creek (now known as Baytown) to Maria Ramos and Jose Campos. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1941 and enlisted in the Army and served from 1941 - '46.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Maria Esther Estrada Campos. He is preceded in death by his parents and several siblings, as well as by his daughter, Leah Aguirre of Houston. Jesus is survived by his son, Adrian, and daughters Olga (Kevin Benz of Austin), Edna (Eldon Thomas of Houston and Asheville, NC), as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jesus was proud of his involvement in Houston's Hispanic community especially his work on behalf of various political candidates, Get-Out-the Vote efforts and improving educational opportunities for Hispanic students. He was also proud of his distinguished military record. During World War II, he was assigned to the 672ND Amphibious Tank Battalion Attached to the 15th Division. He made numerous first assault landings in the Pacific, was wounded twice and was awarded the Purple Heart, 3 Bronze Stars, an Arrowhead in the Asiatic- Pacific and World War II Campaigns and a Good Conduct Medal.

Jesus retired from Exxon after 20 years and was an active member of the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans. His recent awards and honors include the Distinguished Hispanic Volunteer from Houston Mayor Bill White in 2007; Eagles Award in 2005 from the San Jacinto Chapter of DAV; Participant in Honor Flight #2 to visit the WWII Memorial in 2009; Fiestas Patrias Distinguished Hispanic Award 2006, recognition by numerous members of the US Congress, the Texas Senate and House; the Houston City Council, the American GI Forum, and the League of United Latin American Citizens. He will be respected, loved and missed by everyone who knew him.

The family will be receiving visitors Tuesday, July 26, 2011 from 5- 9 pm with a Rosary at 7p.m.at Forest Park Lawndale, 6900 Lawndale Ave, Houston TX 77023. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 27 at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Park Lawndale Main Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, you may want to donate to the American GI Forum Community Housing and Development, Houston . c/o Jeanie Aleman, 9003 Arlington Forest , Houston , TX 77088