Joseph “Joe” Alfred Cavazos entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at the age of 88. Born October 6, 1937 on the Santa Gertrudis division of the King Ranch, Joe’s life was shaped by the heritage of his father who served as the Ranch’s foreman.

A graduate of King High School in Kingsville, TX, Joe pursued higher education at Tulane University in New Orleans, LA before graduating from St Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX.

Joe’s professional journey included a successful managerial career with Sears Roebuck & Co. working in many cities across Texas and also Bossier City, LA where he retired from Sears after 29 years of service. Driven by a lifelong passion for helping others, Joe embarked on a second career as Assistant Superintendent of Logistics for the Houston Fire Department where he served with dedication for 14 years until his retirement in 2018.

In 2021, Joe moved to Dallas to be closer to family. A spirited storyteller with a love for fishing and sports, he was happiest when surrounded by his children, grandchildren and loved ones.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lauro F. Cavazos and Tomasa Quintanilla Cavazos; Sister Sarita Ochoa; and his brothers Dr. Lauro F. Cavazos, Gen. Richard E. Cavazos and Robert “Bobby” Cavazos.

Joe is survived by his children Trisha Chaffin and husband Greg, Tim Cavazos and Edward Cavazos, and his four grandchildren Alessia Cavazos, Ashley, Nicholas and Allison Chaffin.

Visitation will be held Monday, May 4th from 5pm to 7pm with a rosary at 6:30pm at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary 205 General Cavazos Blvd. Kingsville, TX. On Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 10:00am his funeral mass will be held at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church at 715 N 8th St. Kingsville, TX with a burial to follow at Kingsville Resthaven Cemetery.

We will miss his stories and seeing the joy he brought to everyone he met. His dedication and love for all his family will fill the hearts of all who knew him.