Jose De Jesus Nava Jr.'s Obituary
Jose Carrillo Nava Jr. was born on Dec. 6th, 1957 in Valpariaso, Zacatecas Mexico. He entered into eternal rest on Sunday, July 26th, 2015 in the early morning hours surrounded by the love and presence of his family. He had fought valiantly against his illnesses that ultimately compromised his quality of health, and is now without pain and resting in peace. Jose served 27 years in the US Army and National Guard. He was an E5 Sergeant at OMS 35 as a mechanic specialist. He would often share many memories of his lengthy military career. He especially kept in close contact with his mentor SSG Burns and fellow military staff after his early retirement due to health issues. He enjoyed a very close relationship with his mother Rebeca, as they called each other practically on a daily basis to stay in touch to share stories, argue, or exchange pranks with each other, or just check in to make sure his health was in good standing. He was also very close with the many neighbors in his neighborhood, always quick to assist those in need of an errand or a ride whenever he could, or just visit with them to listen and share stories and life experiences with those who he considered and cared for as extended family. It did not matter what the persons age, race, or color they were. Jose was a fanatical music appreciator and aficionado, who enjoyed many different genera’s of music. Music really was what soothed his soul and he would play music every day from his traditional Mexican music roots, to his staples of Oldies, Funk, R&B, Soul, Gospel, and a bit of everything in between. You could always find him listening to, and usually singing and dancing along to his music, anywhere and everywhere her went. He had collected quite an impressive selection of music over the years that he was very proud of, and later could not be found without his iPod or iPad with volume raised and blasting without care or concern for anyone who was nearby. Although Jose had a rough and macho, intimidating at times exterior who could be mean and grumpy one moment, he also had the capacity to be kind, tender and caring the next. Especially with children, but mostly with his cherished grandchildren, whom he forged a very close and strong bond with operating ‘Grampy Daycare’ to keep his days busy and on his toes. Jose was also a big prankster who had a bit of a twisted sense of humor, with little or no filter for his sarcastic comments. Jose Jr. is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, high school sweethearts, Leticia Martinez Nava. His four children; Gavino, Reyna, Sheila (Heriberto) and Angel. His adored grandchildren; Bella Nava, Yuriana Gonzalez, and Cruz Gonzalez. His parents; Jose Sr., and loving mother Rebeca Carrillo Nava. His brothers and sisters in laws, sister and brother in laws; Herman (†) & Sandra, Will & Rosetta, Hugo & Karen, Frank & Sophia, Chris & Kellee, Phil & Randie, Becky & Carlos, In Laws: Gavino and Margie Martinez, sister in law Catherine Martinez, and brother in law Ben Martinez (Sara Large), nephews and niece.
What’s your fondest memory of Jose?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jose?
Share a story where Jose's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jose you’ll never forget.
How did Jose make you smile?