Joel Tamez Jr.

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Joel Tamez Jr., Friday, April 12, 2024. A beacon of light in the lives of those he touched, Joel's spirit was as captivating as the heavy metal rhythms he so adored. Bands like Peacocks on Trial, Tool, Slipknot, The Peak, and SCSANTA were among his favorites, setting the soundtrack to a life lived with unbridled passion and intensity.

Joel was known for his unique blend of qualities – a goofball with a sweet disposition, kind yet a notorious jokester, making every moment with him an adventure. His love for the eerie brought joy to many, from his fascination with scary clowns and movies to his delight in the quirky charm of Beetlejuice. His toughness was an armor for a soft, caring heart that held deep love for his family, friends, and his beloved cat Mr. Farley. Joel's presence was a testament to living authentically, embracing both the light and dark with equal fervor. An avid fan of disc golf, running, and maintaining a healthy spirit through exercising at his home gym, he embodied a life in motion, always exploring, always seeking. Joel's academic journey led him to UTPA, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, a field that undoubtedly benefited from his insight and empathy. His professional path saw him excel as a supervisor at Maxim, where he left a lasting impact over his five years of employment. Beyond his achievements and hobbies, Joel's essence was most vividly captured in the simpler moments – sharing music with his nieces and nephews, whom he adored; the ritual of Sunday dinners after closing the restaurant, a tradition that bound the family in unity and love; and hanging out with his friends, sharing drinks, recreational plants, and laughter, while sharing dreams and stories. Our gatherings will now miss his laughter, our music will play with a note of longing, but our memories will forever hold the spark of his indomitable spirit. As we say our goodbyes, let us celebrate Joel – a soul who, in his passage through the world, taught us the beauty of living fully, with an open heart and an enduring smile.

Survived with deep sorrow by his parents, Joel Tamez and Inelba Ibanez de Tamez; three sisters, Maria R. Tamez, Cris (Mario) Leal, Inelba (Aaron) Tamez; six nieces and nephews, Mario Joel, Alejandra, Gabriella, Ava, Ashley, Cesar; his cat, Mr. Farley; many more family and friends.

Joel is preceded in death by his grandparents, Cosme Ibanez, Mercedes Ibanez, Juan Tamez, and Ester Tamez.

A viewing will be held at Funeraria Del Angel on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 from 5pm to 12am with a rosary service at 7pm. Services will continue Thursday, April 18, 2024 with a catholic mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 2pm.