Jose Antonio Mejia-Macias

Jose Antonio Mejia Macias, 70, of Waco, lovingly known as “Pepin” passed away at home on March 12, 2025, surrounded by his five beloved daughters. He was born March 3, 1955 in Monterrey, Mexico, to Jose Mejia and Maria De La Luz Macias.

Memorial Mass: 10AM Wednesday, March 19 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Burial with Military Honors: Oakwood Cemetery

Jose graduated from high school in Monterrey before immigrating to the United States at the age of 17. He met and married Olga Rodriguez in Chicago, Illinois, and together they raised five daughters. As a Mexican immigrant, he proudly served in the United States Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War.

In 1981, Jose and his family moved to Texas, where he dedicated 15 years of service to the Waco Fire Department, as their Chief Mechanic. His passion for learning led him to attend Texas State Technical College from 1984 to 2004, earning four associate degrees and a certificate of completion. With his expertise, he opened Jose’s Auto Care, which he operated for several years before working at various companies such as Turbo Chargers, Matco, Hobbs Bonded Fiber, and FunTown RV. He concluded his career as a Master Technician at Crestview RV before retiring. He then spent his leisure time volunteering throughout the community with Shepard’s Heart Food Distributions.

Jose had a deep love for soccer and played as a goalie, earning the nickname “Guero” and “Chicharron.” He also enjoyed working as a mechanic and teaching others his “old school” mechanic techniques, spending time with his daughters and grandchildren, and traveling for family reunions and visits to Monterrey.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; parents, Jose Mejia and Maria Victorial; nephews, Jonathan Graefser; and Jorge Sierra.

He is survived by Olga Rodriguez; his daughters, Sylvia (Luis) Hernandez, Josie Jessica Mejia, Monica Mejia, Olga Mejia, and Victoria (Cleo) Kirkland; grandchildren, Victoria Hernandez, Arianna Hernandez, Isabella Hernandez, BriAna Cornelius, Mikayla Longoria, Adam Longoria, Jazmine Longoria, Shane Norton, Christopher Vincent, Elijah Vincent, Davontrae Kirkland, and Daveon Kirkland; great-grandchildren, Amayra, Eric, Dallas, Zayden, DeAdrian, Kardiere, and Ireland; brothers, Gerardo Mejia (Chieko) and Mario Mejia (Gina); sisters, Maria Luz Martinez (Jaime), Lilia Weston (Leonard), Blanca Sierra (Hugo), Juana Vallejo (Filemon)and Sonia Mejia; and numerous other relatives.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Natale Lippe, Dr. Nadege Gunn, NP Ashley Wallace, and Interim Hospice for their exceptional care and support during this difficult time.

Jose’s legacy of love and dedication will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

Place of Service: Sacred Heart Catholic Church , 2621 Bagby; Waco, TX 76711