Jesus de Leon passed away April 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, music, and deep devotion to his family. Born September 17, 1944, in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, to Martin de Leon and Felipa Martinez, Jesus lived a life rooted in strong family values and meaningful connections that spanned generations.
He was the beloved husband of the late Maria C. de Leon, with whom he shared a loving marriage beginning on April 26, 1970. Together, they built a family filled with warmth, resilience, and lasting memories.
Jesus was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Pablo, Juan, and Martin de Leon. Though they are no longer with us, their bond as a family remains enduring.
He is lovingly remembered by his children: Santa B. Mata and her spouse Jesus Mata; Jesus J. de Leon and spouse Begonia de Leon; Roberto de Leon and spouse Sonia de Leon; and Angelica M. de Leon and brother, Roberto de Leon. His legacy continues through his many grandchildren—Christian Mata, Ricky B. Mata, Carla M. Mata, Jessica de Leon, Melissa M. Sotero, Brianna I. de Leon, Maritza de Leon, Roberto de Leon Jr., Ismael M. de Leon, Damion de Leon, Bianca de Leon, Ramon Navarro III, Jesus D. Navarro, Gabriela Navarro, and Hector Navarro—and his cherished great-grandchildren: Ivonne Mata Ortiz, Christian S. Mata Rodriguez, Gabriela Mata, Roberto Rene de Leon, Damion X. de Leon, Edgar A. Gutierrez, Ismael M. de Leon Jr., Isabel D. de Leon, Roy J. Sotero, Eliana R. Sotero, Aiden A. Navarro, and Daniel Reyes.
Jesus was retired, but his life was always full—especially through his love of music. In his younger years, he was a musician in a band made up of close friends and his brothers, Roberto and Martin. Music was not just something he enjoyed—it was something he felt deeply. Every note carried meaning, and that passion stayed with him throughout his life. His family will forever be reminded of him in the songs he loved, feeling each melody just as he did.
Known affectionately as “Jefito,” and also as "Apa" & "Welo" to his family, he will be remembered for his relentless and stubborn nature with a dramatic flair, who was never afraid to speak his mind, or make his presence known. He lived his life on his own terms and could be strong-willed in every sense of the word, but beneath that tough exterior was a soft side that not everyone got to see. Around his grandchildren he melted and laughed easier and showed a gentleness that surprised many.
In the eyes of his grandchildren his stubbornness didn't matter nearly as much as the love he gave them.
He will be truly missed by his entire family, as well as by his close friends and neighbors. And his memory will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew him.