Oscar Zapata Juarez, age 76, of Kingsville, Texas, passed away on June 21, 2026 peacefully in his sleep.

He was born on May 22, 1950, in Robstown, Texas, to Leopoldo P. and Maria Z. Juarez. He will be remembered for his dedication to his faith, love for his family, strong work ethic and the many lives he touched throughout the years.

Oscar worked as a corrosion technician in the natural gas and oil pipeline industry for over 30 years, a career he took pride in. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed many hobbies—woodworking, tending to his garden, caring for family pets and spending time outdoors enjoying God's creation. Above all else, what brought Oscar the most joy was his faithful service to his God, Jehovah. He was baptized in 1988 and enjoyed many aspects of being one of Jehovah's Witnesses, including the ministry work, disaster relief projects, giving parts at meetings and associating with his spiritual family.

One of the things people will remember most about him will be his sense of humor. Making people laugh came naturally to him, and his jokes and lighthearted spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

He was also a very generous person. If you needed help, you could count on Oscar, whether that meant giving his time, sharing something he had made, or simply showing up when someone needed him. Giving to others was simply part of who he was.

Oscar shared almost 38 years of marriage with the love of his life and was a devoted father and grandfather. He cherished his family deeply and made the most of every opportunity to spend time with them. Some of his happiest moments were the simple ones—relaxing around an outdoor fire pit, taking a weekend getaway with his wife, going out to eat with his children, supporting his grandchildren at recitals and games, and spending time with his brothers and their families. The memories he created with his family will be treasured for years to come.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leopoldo P. and Maria Z. Juarez; his brother, Erasmo Juarez; and his sister-in-law, Guadalupe Juarez.

Oscar is survived by his beloved wife, Esmeralda P. Juarez; his daughters, Genevieve (Steve) Garza, Cynthia (Dwight) Maling, Jennifer (Andres) Ayala and Sarah Juarez; his sons, Oscar (Hilda) Juarez Jr. and Erasmo Juarez; his eight cherished grandchildren, Lilliana, Bella, Matthew, Benjamin, Evee, Damien, Catherine, and Jenna; his brothers, Dr. Rumaldo (Teresa) Juarez and Leo P. (Esperanza) Juarez Jr.; his aunt Sister Delia Zapata; his uncle, Rene Zapata; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held on July 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 539 Petronila Rd, Robstown, Texas.