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With heavy hearts, we announce that Joe David Leyva Sr. passed away peacefully with family by his side on July 19, 2025, at 10:50 a.m. due to complications related to heart, diabetes, and kidney disease. He was 77 years old. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Joe was the son of Timoteo and Andrea Leyva. He grew up on the Westside and was a proud graduate of John F. Kennedy High School. From a young age, Joe worked alongside his father on a variety of jobs, learning the value of hard work and building the strong work ethic that would define his life. Joe married his beloved wife, Christine Leyva, 37 years ago. Together they built a home full of laughter and traditions in the Southside of San Antonio. Joe dedicated over 30 years to his work as a truck driver, with memorable time spent at Kraft Foods and U.S. Foods. He enjoyed meeting restaurant owners across the city and surrounding areas, often turning professional relationships into friendships. Outside of work, Joe had a deep passion for softball - often taking the mound as a pitcher - and for shooting pool, where he won many games and bragging rights. He was known for his cooking—especially his spontaneous BBQs and elaborate Easter celebrations. Joe was a proud fan of his Spurs, Cowboys, and Longhorns during the sport seasons. Watching WWE on Saturday and Monday nights, Westerns of all kinds, and Jason Statham action films. The Leyva home became legendary in the neighborhood, particularly on Halloween, when Joe and Christine transformed it into a spooky, candy-filled destination that drew long lines of trick-or-treaters. During the holidays, their house earned the nickname “the Southside Griswold's” for its sparkling Christmas light displays enjoyed by all. Joe will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. His door was always open, his laughter uplifting, and his jokes ready to lighten any moment. No more worries or pain—Happy trails to you, until we meet again. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Timoteo and Andrea Leyva; his sister, Lucy Leyva; and Soledad “Aunt Sally” Cano. He is survived by his devoted wife, Christine Leyva; his children, Joe David (Lucy) Leyva Jr., Mark (Lottie) Leyva, Estella Valdez, Linda (Ernest) Johnson, Anthony Valdez, and Andrea (Luis) Barrientes; his sister, Susan (Billy) Pastran; brothers, Timoteo (Gloria) Leyva Jr. and Robert (Roberta) Leyva; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews. The family would like to thank everyone for their love, support, and prayers during this time — especially the doctors and nurses whose kindness and dedication brought comfort to Joe and Christine. Public visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. with rosary service to begin at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South, 1700 SE Military Dr, San Antonio, Texas 78214. Visitation will continue on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South with a departure leaving funeral home for a 10:00 a.m. funeral mass at St. Leo's the Great Catholic Church, at 4415 S. Flores, San Antonio, Texas 78214. Graveside burial will be immediately following at San Fernando II at 746 Castroville Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78237.

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Joe "J.D." David Leyva Sr.

May 1, 1948 - July 19, 2025