Armando Javier Gorena Sr.

Armando J. Gorena Sr., known affectionately as Javier or A.J. to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2024, at the age of 84 in McAllen, Texas. Born on September 28, 1939, in Edinburg, Texas, he was a man of great character who lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, and commitment to his community. 

Javier was a proud graduate of Edinburg High School, Class of 1958, and furthered his education at Pan American College. His academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. Following his studies, he answered the call of duty and served our nation with honor as a soldier in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of E5. 

After his military service, Javier embarked on a successful career as a commercial contractor, a vocation he excelled in for 26 years before his retirement in 2006. His work ethic and expertise were unparalleled, earning him respect in his profession. In addition to his contracting work, Javier shared his knowledge and passion by teaching, and he made significant contributions to his local community as an NFL licensee and as a dedicated member of the Sharyland ISD School Board. 

Javier's interests were as generous and broad as his heart. He relished the great outdoors, often going hunting, fishing, and camping. His skills in these areas were only matched by his prowess as a coach, where he inspired many young athletes with his wisdom and encouragement. Above all, Javier's greatest joy was his family, particularly his grandchildren. He was a constant presence at their various events, celebrating each milestone with pride and joy. 

Throughout his life, Javier was a beacon of generosity and selflessness. His hands, ever skillful and steady, fixed and created, offering tangible manifestations of his desire to help and uplift those around him. His legacy is one of love, hard work, and community service, traits that were deeply appreciated by all who knew him. 

Javier is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Mary E. Gorena, and their cherished children: Dominque, Patrick, Tanja Ochoa (Agustin), Anthony (Diana), and Armando Javier Jr. (Zonya). He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Dillard (Daniel), and sister-in-law Ruth Gorena. His life was enriched by the laughter and love of his grandchildren, who will carry forward his spirit of kindness and dedication. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jose Angel Gorena Sr. and Evelina Saenz Gorena, his brothers Jose Angel Jr. and Robert, sister-in-law Sobie, and his daughter Desarae. 

Armando J. Gorena Sr. will be dearly missed, but his memory will live on through the lives he touched and the community he helped build. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose, joy, and an unwavering commitment to his family and fellow man. As we say farewell to this remarkable man, we hold close the lessons he taught us through his example: to be generous with our time, selfless in our actions, and handy in our endeavors. 

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Javier will be laid to rest with all the honors befitting a man of his stature. His family takes comfort in knowing that his legacy

will continue to inspire and influence generations to come. Rest in peace, Armando J. Gorena Sr., a true gentleman, loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and honored veteran. Your memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing you. 

A special thank you to his caregiver Dora Rosas of Mission, TX who loving cared for Javier for 6 years.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary, Monday, June 10, 2024 at Rivera at Hillcrest Funerals and Cremations 1300 N. I-69C Edinburg, Texas. Funeral mass will be at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Edinburg, Texas. Interment will follow at Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Rivera at Hillcrest Funerals and Cremations in Edinburg. 

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