Jose R. Gonzales

Jose R. Gonzales, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on July 8, 2025, at the age of 81, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 9, 1944, in Burr, Texas to the late Pedro Gonzales and Maria Ramirez Gonzales.

As a retired groundskeeper with Fort Bend Independent School District, Jose took great pride in maintaining the beautiful landscapes he tended to, reflecting the care he extended to every aspect of his life. He was an avid fisherman, both in freshwater and saltwater, and spent many cherished hours outdoors, whether it was hunting or simply relaxing in his garage. You could often find him in front of the TV, cheering for the Astros or the Texans, or working diligently to keep his yard immaculate, a true labor of love.

Jose was also a proud member of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), where he shared his passion for the outdoors with like-minded friends.

Jose is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Maria A. Gonzales of Stafford; sons, David Gonzales of Austin and Marcus Gonzales and his wife, Lee Ann of Sargent; daughter, Veronica G. Whitley and her husband, Alan of Sugar Land; grandchildren, Michael A. Gonzales, Jonathan Gonzales-Watters, Tristen Nowak, Marisa L. Stephens, Zoe E. Whitley and Abby M. Whitley; great grandchildren: Patrick A. Gonzales, Adalaide K. Gonzales, Maverick T. Gonzales. He is also survived by his brother, Pedro Gonzales, Jr.

Visitation will take place at Wharton Funeral Home on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by a Rosary service that evening at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church with Father Antonio Perez officiating. The Rite of Committal and burial will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Marcus Gonzales, David Gonzales, Alan Whitley, Jonathan Gonzales-Watters, Michael Gonzales, and Jerry Ramirez.

May he rest in peace.

Funeral Services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.