Jose Villarreal Jr.

Jose Villarreal, Jr., Ph.D., Captain, United States Air Force February 25, 1942 - April 8, 2026 Jose Villarreal, Jr., was born in Mission, Texas, to the late Jose Villarreal, Sr. and Maria (Mora) Villarreal. He passed away peacefully at home in Los Lunas, New Mexico at the age of 84 after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease and heart failure. He was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Eduarda Vasaldua, Maria Elena Cabrera, and Juanita Garcia. Raised in San Antonio, Texas, Jose graduated from Burbank High School before attending Texas A&M University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1964. Immediately after graduation, Jose answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force. He earned his commission through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps. After intensive training as a Navigator-Bombardier in the B-52 Stratofortress, he deployed with the Strategic Air Command, 486th Bombardment Squadron and was involved in extended overseas operational assignments with Vietnam era SAC missions. In December 1969, Jose was honorably released from active duty with the rank of Captain (03). After completing his military service, Jose returned to Texas A&M University, where he earned his Master's degree in 1971 and his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in 1974. His dedication to education and lifelong learning shaped both his professional career and the many students he mentored. Jose enjoyed a successful 25-year career with IBM as a project manager before pursuing his passion for teaching. He moved to New Mexico, where he served as a professor at New Mexico Highlands University and Eastern New Mexico University, teaching advanced mathematics and computer science and inspiring students with his knowledge, patience, and encouragement. Students respectfully referred to him as "Dr. J." In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jose was a skilled woodworker who carried on the craftsmanship he learned from his father. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends-not just by fixing things, but by teaching others how to do them. Jose shared 29 loving years of marriage with his beloved wife and partner, Consuelo ("Coni") Lovato. Together they built a strong blended family rooted in faith, respect, and care for one another. He is also survived by his children, Sarita Villarreal, Marcos Villarreal, Patricia (Jeremy) Sohns, Jessica Villarreal (Warren), Suzette (Andrew) Ortiz and Catherine (Chris) Torrez. Survivors also include his brother Hector (Mary) Villarreal. Their family includes 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Jose was a faithful parishioner of San Clemente Parish in Los Lunas. He was a proud lifetime member of VFW Post 9676. Services will be held April 28, 2026, at San Clemente Parish, with visitation at 9:00 a.m., Rosary at 9:30 a.m., and Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial with military honors at Santa Fe National Cemetery will follow at 1:00 p.m. Pallbearers: Andrew Ortiz, Chris Torrez, Jeremy Sohns, Caleb Dalton, Nick Sohns, and Jedediah Villarreal. Honorary Pallbearers: Hector Villarreal, Richard Lovato, Ed Lovato, Jack Lovato, and Jose Silviano Lovato. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to members of VFW Post 9676 in Los Lunas for their fellowship and support; and to the compassionate caregivers of Luna Del Valle Hospice and Heritage Home Healthcare of Albuquerque for the dignity and kindness they provided during his final days. Romero Funeral Home, Belen, NM is in charge of arrangements. Captain Jose Villarreal will be remembered for his faithful honorable service to his country, his devotion to education, his quiet strength, his humble spirit, and his deep love for his family. His life stands as a lasting example of duty, integrity, faith, and service to others.