OBITUARY
Joe M. Ornelas Jr., a beloved, hard-working, honest, humorous, and resilient individual, passed away on February 9, 2026, at the age of 86. A resident of San Angelo, Joe was born on February 8, 1940.
Joe served briefly in the Army, demonstrating his commitment to service early in life. He then embarked on a long and successful career at GTE and diligently worked his way up to retire as a cable splicer. His career journey is a testament to his dedication and work ethic.
Family was central to Joe’s life. He is survived by his children, Debbie Guerrero and her husband Oscar, and Ralph Ornelas and his wife Wynn. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ralph and Frances Delarosa, and Maggie and Santiago Ornelas, parents, Erlinda and Joe M. Ornelas, Sr., and sons, John Anthony Ornelas and Oscar Ornelas. Joe’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Katie Perduea and her husband Mathew, Andrew Munoz and his wife Valerie, Lacy McAnally, Cristopher Ornelas, Megan Guerrero, Ashley Campbell and her husband Joe, Sarah Guerrero, and Jacob Garcia, his great-grandchildren, Avery, Kylie, Ayden, Kash, Adrian, Liam, Desmond, Eloise, Sophia, Brycen, Alyssa, and Easton, his siblings, Olga Cruz and her husband David, Sylvia Ney and her husband Bret, Rick Ornelas and his husband Jeff, and Linda Elizando and her husband Bobby. Joe’s legacy will also be carried on by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
In lieu of services, the Ornelas family asks that you enjoy a round of golf in Joe’s memory.
Golf was the game Joe loved to hate; he didn’t have patience for much, but he sure did for golf. This passion reflected his unique ability to approach life with humor and resilience.
Joe lived life his own way, on his own terms. He would always say, “I’m fine.” Though he may not have always expressed his love verbally, he ensured that those around him felt cared for through his actions.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to his granddaughter, Megan Guerrero, and Nurse Sarah from ICU, for their support and care.
Joe M. Ornelas Jr. will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and resilience.
There are no services scheduled at this time.
— From Johnson’s Funeral Home
