Jose M. Cantu, 74, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away on March 31, 2026, and entered eternal rest in the house of the Lord leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication and service.

Joe was born on August 25, 1951, in Kingsville, Texas to Manuel Cantu and Sarita Padron.

A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and veteran, Joe proudly served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. His remarkable career spanned 34 years as a US Postal Service mail carrier. Joe held a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and wore many hats as a licensed Real Estate Agent/Broker, Private Investigator, CDL Truck Driver, and successful business entrepreneur. His diverse accomplishments reflected his dynamic personality and many talents.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Maria Yvonne Cantu; and two sisters, Margie and Connie.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Shirley Cantu of Corpus Christi; one daughter, Michele (Arturo) Flores of Corpus Christi; two sons, Jose M. (Gabriela) Cantu Jr. of Corpus Christi, and Corpus Christi City Council Member, Eric (April) Cantu of Corpus Christi; step-children, Ray Garza (Jana), and Melissa Ratkovich (Paul); fifteen grandchildren, Mallory, Zachary, Brandon, Marie, Alexandra, Miranda, Gemma, Camia, Eric Jr, Eric III, Ethan, Graden, Jaxton, Hudson, and Dawson; one sister, Virginia (Stephen) Banks; six great-grandchildren; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Pallbearers are Brandon Roe, Danny Menchaca, Clemente Menchaca III, Ricky Garcia, Wayne Morais, and Stephen Banks.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Trevino Funeral Home, 3006 Niagara St., Corpus Christi, Texas 78405, with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Martin's Catholic Church, 715 N. 8th St., Kingsville, Texas 78363,with Father Alfredo Villarreal officiating. Burial will follow at Chamberlain Cemetery, 735 W Caesar Ave, Kingsville, TX 78363.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ramirez-Salinas Funeral Home.