Jose Martinez Lira

Jose Lira, beloved father, hermano, faithful servant, and affectionately known to all as “Popo,” passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the age of 94, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. His life was defined by quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a steadfast devotion to hard work and to others. He lived simply, gave generously, and left the world better than he found it.

Jose was born on April 12, 1931, in Santa Rosa, Coahuila, Mexico, to Epitacio Lira and Andrea Martinez. As the oldest of ten children, responsibility became part of his character early on. He carried it not with complaint, but with humility and resolve, traits that would define him for the rest of his life. Known for his generous heart, Jose gave freely of his time, his resources, and his quiet presence. He never hesitated to help anyone in need and never sought recognition for doing so

In his small hometown, he met the love of his life, Celia Gonzales, and the two were married on March 27, 1953. Together they built a life rooted in faith, sacrifice, and family. Hand in hand, they dreamed of something bigger for their children. They packed up their lives and moved to Texas. Becoming U.S. citizens was more than paperwork, it was a promise to have better than either of them could have imagined.

A lifelong farmer, Jose believed deeply in the dignity of honest labor. He began working for just 25 cents an hour and never lost respect for a hard day’s work. Farming was not merely his occupation; it was his calling. He rose early, worked long days, and retired only at the age of 84. Forced not by willingness, but by advancing tractor technology. Had it been up to him, he would still be out in the fields.

Jose spent many years working at Roll-A-Cone in Tulia, Texas, where summers of picking corn and searching for the biggest watermelon became treasured memories for his grandchildren. Through his example, he taught perseverance, responsibility, and integrity without ever needing many words.

Grounded in faith, Jose was a devoted member of the Church of Christ, where he shared a meaningful and cherished relationship with Hermano Raul and Hermana Mely Aguilar. His faith guided his life consistently, shaping the way he served his family and community.

Above all else, family was Jose’s greatest joy and highest priority. He attended every graduation, carefully keeping each program as a treasured reminder. He loved watching sports, sharing meals, and simply being present. His love was steady, dependable, and unconditional.

Jose is survived by his daughters Julie Rodriguez and husband Arthur, Yolanda Hudson and husband Max, and Romelia Leal; his sons Joe Lira and wife Yolanda, and Raymond Lira; four sisters, Petrita, Concepción, Margarita, and Maria DeJesus; and three brothers, Hilario, Amador, and Francisco, whom Jose lovingly raised as his own. He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 16 great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored completely.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Celia; his parents; his son-in-law Amador “Sonny” Leal; brothers Lazaro and Candelario; and two cherished granddaughters, Valerie and Valentine Leal.

Family visitation will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, 2800 Paramount Boulevard. Funeral services will take place Monday, February 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Jesus Leyva officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Amarillo, Texas. Arrangements are entrusted to Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Jose Lira will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, humble spirit, deep faith, and profound devotion to family. Though we grieve his passing, we find comfort in knowing his earthly work is complete and that he has been welcomed into eternal rest.