José de Jesus Padilla

José de Jesus Padilla fought the good fight and entered into glory at the age of 98, on April 22, 2026, in Santa Fe Springs, California, surrounded by his 5 loving children, many of his grandchildren and one of his many great-grandchildren. He had a beautiful despedida.

He was born to Pablo Padilla Muñoz and Petra Aguirre in Miami, Arizona, on April 7, 1928. He and his family were forced to give up their business and required to return to Mexico due to the Mexican Repatriation during the Great Depression.

José de Jesus returned to the United States when he was 19 years young. Shortly after, he enlisted and proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He often mentioned with pride that he was in England during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and that he was photographed with the queen.

He had a beautiful, strong voice and loved singing and playing the guitar. He sang with mariachis and was even a contestant on Cuanto Cuesta el Show! Together with his lovely wife, he sang in the choir and served with devotion at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church for many, many years. They were quite a pair and were often the first ones to get up and dance when the music started.

José de Jesus would show up in a pinch and was there to lend a helping hand to his children and grandchildren. He, more than likely, scolded you for getting into that pinch, nonetheless, he was there to help.

As he got older, he loved spending his days playing sudoku and scratching lottery tickets. He was a good man who loved his family and was a great provider. He now joins our beloved mom, Esperanza, and all of his beloved family and friends who went on to be with the Lord before him.

Rest in peace Papá, we'll see you when we get there. ❤️