Jesus “JR” Hilario Jr. passed away peacefully, on August 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, laughter, and countless memories that will forever be cherished by his family and friends.

JR was born to Jesus Hilario Sr. and Luisa N. Hilario on April 13, 1963. He was the second youngest of eight children and shared a special bond with his mother, who at 99 years old remains the heart of the family. Family was always one of the most important parts of his life. If you knew JR, chances are he made you smile. He never met a stranger and had a natural way of making everyone feel welcome. He was kind, hardworking, dependable, and always willing to lend a helping hand. There was very little he could not build, repair, or figure out.

For more than 20 years, JR dedicated himself to Coastal Bend College, where he was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and willingness to help others.

JR also played an important role in the beginnings of Beeville Medical Clinic, helping Mercy and Ryan turn their vision into reality. Whether something needed to be built, repaired, installed, or figured out, JR was always there. His hard work and dedication helped create something that will remain a lasting part of his family’s legacy.

Outside of work, JR enjoyed the simple things in life. He was known as the best cook in the family, and his Filipino cooking was loved by many throughout South Texas. He enjoyed karaoke with friends, watching NBA basketball, sharing meals with family, and laughing with the people he loved.

JR’s life was a testament to the impact one person can have through kindness, hard work, and a willingness to help others. He built more than things with his hands—he built friendships, memories, and a legacy that will live on through his children, family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jesus Hilario Sr.

Survivors include his children whom he loved with all his heart, Virginia Lasao, Meriam Baban, Angel Mark Hilario, Kateleen Hilario, Kamille Hilario, Jevi Jane Hilario, Merielle Hilario, Lance Kirby Hilario, Joshua Hilario, Elish Grace Hilario, and Jace Hilario. He is also survived by his brothers, Inocencio Hilario, Enrique Hilario, and Manuel Hilario; sisters, Enriqueta Danzalan, Soledad Navalta, Carmelita Chua, and Mercy Flynn; and mother, who he cherished deeply, Luisa N. Hilario.

Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026, at St Joseph Catholic Church with a Rosary to be recited at 3 o’ clock. The funeral mass will follow with Father Richard Gutierrez officiating.

Those who knew JR will remember his cooking, his singing, his hard work, his generosity, and his sense of humor. Most of all, they will remember his smile and the way he made people feel welcome.

His family asks that you keep his children, his mother Luisa, his brothers and sisters, and all of his loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time.

JR, you were loved by so many. You touched more lives than you may have ever known, and the legacy you leave behind will never be forgotten.