Jose Efrain "Joe" Ruiz III

Jose Efrain “Joe” Ruiz III

February 4, 1971 – September 15, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jose Efrain “Joe” Ruiz III, who left this world on September 15, 2025, at the age of 54. Born on February 4, 1971, in Laredo, Texas, Joe was a cherished husband, devoted son, amazing father, stepfather, beloved brother, great uncle and friend.

Joe’s passion for life was evident in everything he did, from his unwavering dedication to his ranching work to his love for cooking carne asada for friends and family gatherings. A proud ranchman, Joe found great joy in tending to his cows and embracing the quiet beauty of his ranch. He was an accomplished roper, known as “Smokin’ Joe” and enjoyed hunting deer, often spending his days outdoors soaking in the nature he cherished. Joe’s adventurous spirit extended beyond the ranch; he relished traditional family vacations, particularly those spent at the beach. A lover of baseball, he also took great pride in being a true fan of the Texas A&M Aggies, celebrating their victories with fervor.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jose Efrain Ruiz Sr. and Victoria G. Ruiz; and maternal grandparents, Daniel L. Trevino and Virginia F. Trevino.

He is survived by his loving wife of 4 years of marriage, Monica M. Ruiz; son, Joseph Ian Ruiz; daughters, Kaylani Isabel Garza, Olivia Tess Ruiz; stepchildren, John Michael Elizondo, Alexis Lorraine Gladden, Marcus Eugene Gladden; step grandchildren, Alexander Seth Haddock, Addison Shelby Haddock; parents, Jose Efrain Ruiz, Jr. and Otila T. Ruiz. He is also survived by his siblings, Daniel Leonardo Ruiz, Priscilla (Juan Carlos) Saenz, Gina Liza (Gregory) Bryan, and Gabriela (Roberto) Frausto, Jr.; among other loving relatives and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Friday, September 26, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Saturday morning, September 27, 2025 departing at 10:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to St. John Neumann Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the family plot of the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.