Joe Castillo, Jr., born on January 26, 1953, in Stanfield, Arizona, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, at the age of 72, where he later made his home in Lytle, Texas.
Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. A proud Native American man with a wild and free spirit, Joe lived life on his own terms. He had a heart full of love, a contagious laugh, and a way of making everyone around him feel joy and warmth. Though his wings were ready, our hearts were not.
Joe worked for many years as a roofer, providing for his family through hard work, strength, and dedication. Outside of work, he loved to joke, dance, and have a good time. He was always the life of the room, and his favorite song, “Free Bird,” perfectly captured his free spirit and love for living.
Above all else, Joe was the best dad ever. He was the proud father of seven children—“and counting,” as he liked to say—and his family was the center of his world. He adored his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
Joe shared a deep and loving bond with his beloved wife, Virginia “Vicki” Torres, whom he cherished deeply. He welcomed her family as his own and loved them with unwavering loyalty and care.
He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Torres, and his children and their spouses: Jojo Castillo and Sandra Lopez; Tony and Michelle Castillo; Monica Castillo and Lorenzo Olvera; Debby Flores; Katie and David Chlad; Joelouis Barlow and Virginia Reese; Marjorie Castillo and Terrance Bedingfield Jr.; Amy Castillo and Carlos Ortiz; Olivia and Rudy Rodriguez; Stephanie and Dan Booth; Pedro and Loretta Guerrero; Santiago and Marissa Morantez; and Anna Marie Guerrero.
He is also survived by his siblings, Constance Ochoa, Anita Ochoa, and Louie Castillo, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Joe was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Marjorie Galvan Hernandez; his father, Jose Castillo; his brother, Daniel Castillo; his sister, Marjorie “Hope” Ochoa; and his grandson, Gabriel Benegas, who now welcome him home in heaven.
Joe now rests in the promise of eternal life, as written in Scripture:
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” — John 11:25–26
A Funeral Mass will be held on January 26, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Church in Lytle, Texas. An open reception will follow the service at the Rodriguez residence.
Joe Castillo, Jr. will be remembered for his love, strength, laughter, dancing, and the powerful legacy he leaves behind through his family. He was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.
Joe Castillo Jr.
