Jose Luis Garza Baeza, 71, passed away on November 10, in Cedar Park, Texas. He was born on July 29, 1954, in Imperial, Texas, to Maria Salgado Baiza and Manuel Baiza, and was lovingly adopted by Valeriano Baeza and Maria Portillo Baeza, who raised him with deep love and devotion. Joe was raised in Fort Stockton, Texas, where he grew up surrounded by family and friends, and proudly graduated from Fort Stockton High School.

At 19, Joe married Rosario Calvillo, and together they welcomed three daughters: Roxanne Baeza, Rosemary Pond, and Angelica Baeza. He was a proud grandfather to Ciara M. Gancar, Derian M. Gancar, Dylan P. Devine, Lane G. Devine, Adelina H. Baeza, Arianna S. Frerrer, Katalina R. Ramirez, and Katherine V. Pond. His most recent joy was welcoming his first great-grandson, Atlas E. Gancar.

On July 4, 2004, Joe married his love, Elizabeth L. Baeza. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with companionship, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Joe proudly served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of SP5 (Specialist Five). He served as a police officer and SWAT team member in Dallas, Texas, and later became a high school law enforcement teacher, shaping and inspiring countless students. He continued his service as Assistant Chief at the Fair Oaks Police Department. Later in life, he earned a master’s degree from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, an accomplishment he cherished.

After retirement, Joe embraced his passion for golf and made friends from all over. He was known for his kindness,humor,andwarm spirit.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He protected and cared for those he loved, living his life with loyalty, humility, and heart.

Joe is preceded in death by his biological parents Maria SalgadoBaizaandManuel Baiza, his adoptive parents Valeriano and Maria Portillo Baeza, his wife HermaLinda S. Baeza, and his siblings Elpidio Baeza, Eenemencio Baeza, Cecilio Baeza, and Elena B. Villarreal.

He is survived by his siblings Alvaro Baeza, Manuel Baiza Celaya, Julio Baeza, Candelario Baeza, Florinda Ramirez, and Delia Villarreal, along with nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory.

Joe lived a life of service, honor, and love. His legacy continues in the lives he protected, the students he guided, and the family and friends who were blessed by his presence.

Service information

Visitation on Sunday, November 30, 2025. Family Viewing at 3:00 p.m., Public 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Roy Akers Funeral Home, 515 N Main Ave, San Antonio.

Funeral Mass on Monday, December 1, 2025. Rosary at 9:30 a.m., Mass 10:00 a.m. at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church8134 Blanco Rd, San Antonio.

Burial on Monday, December 1, 2025, at11:30 a.m., Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, Texas.

Food and fellowship will followtheburialatRoyAkers Funeral Home.