When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Jose Villagrana who was indeed a born manager. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Jose was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Jose knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.
Jose was born on March 19, 1958 to Jose and Micaela Villagrana. Jose was raised in Tecalitlan, Mexico. Even as a youngster, Jose learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.
As a young boy, Jose was able to put his natural abilities to work. Jose was raised with seven siblings. He had three brothers Sergio, Ramiro, Gilbert and four sisters Maria, Carmela, Malena, Tere. Jose had an inborn appreciation for the order in the family, allowing for the oldest members to be the most respected and to take on the most responsibility. For Jose, this was a natural order of life, one he gladly embraced.
An objective and conscientious individual, Jose reveled in the security of his family. On July 22, 2000 Jose exchanged wedding vows with Maria Ransel at The Chapel of the Bells in Las Vegas, NV.
Jose was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. He had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. Jose was blessed with four children, three sons Daniel, Justin, John and one daughter Briza. They were also blessed with two grandchildren, Justine and Ansela.
Jose passed away on February 1, 2020 in Conway, SC. He is survived by his loving family and friends. Services were held at St Anthony of Padua. Jose was laid to rest in Palm Northwest Cemetery.
All who knew him would agree that Jose was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Jose Villagrana did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched were given the chance to become a better person.
