Joseph Giorgio Arias

Weslaco, TX – Joseph Giorgio Arias, 68, passed away to be with the Lord on Monday, January 16, 2023, at his residence. Mr. Arias was born March 1, 1954, to Juventino & Josefina Arias, in Raymondville, TX. He joined his beloved mother, Josefina Arias, & maternal grandparents, Lucio & Maria Martinez in Heaven.

Joseph’s ability to care for others led him to become a great educator. His passion and devotion to teach was extraordinary. Joseph strongly encouraged everyone to pursue a higher education, and many times would say that education is the best investment an individual can achieve. After many years of teaching, Joseph decided to retire in 2009. Joseph was a firm believer of his catholic faith. He was an altar boy at the age of six. He later assisted in giving the Eucharist and taught Catechism. Joseph enjoyed reading, listening to all types of music, watching TV, and flowers. His favorite movies were the Greatest Story Ever Told, Somewhere in Time, and the Sound of Music. His favorite singer was Michael Bublé. Joseph was kind and generous with his love. He was loved by family and friends and will be truly missed. Joseph’s life definitely impacted a great number of people. Below, we share life, school, college, and workplace in Joseph’s own words.

“Life: Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, I did not think I would do all the things I have done and met as many people as I have had the pleasure of meeting in my lifetime. I have been to London, Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Florence, Mont St. Michel, and so many other places in Europe. One of my greatest experiences was visiting the Vatican with an excellent guide. The other was going to different sites in Paris and surrounding areas. Besides teaching, traveling has enriched my life. School: Leaving Weslaco High to go to Southwest Texas State in San Marcos was a big step for me in 1973. The move changed my life. After graduating, I taught for seven years. I then graduated from the Harvard Graduate School of Education in 1987. I have loved going to school. In addition, I went to the Universidad de Guadalajara, Universidad de Saltillo, and University of Texas at Austin for summer credit. College: Setting off for San Marcos in 1973 marked my life with many firsts – first time to being truly away from home, meeting new people without knowing anyone, and learning so many new things on my own. SWT gave me a first-rate education, plus a circle of friends that I will never forget. I will never forget my undergraduate years. Workplace: Teaching and educated-related fields are my true loves. I taught in Weslaco for two years, San Antonio for six, McAllen for one in 1985, Harvard Admissions for one, Northeastern School of Law for one, Klein Independent for one, and in the McAllen I.S.D at Rowe and Lamar Academy. I plan to stay in McAllen until I am ready to retire.”

Joseph is survived by his father, Juventino Arias, of Donna, TX; 1 brother, Robert Martinez (Carole), of Milwaukee, WI; 2 sisters, Anabela Martinez (Gilbert), of Houston, TX, Anadelia Arias, of McAllen, TX; 2 nephews, Aaron Martinez (Christina), of Pharr, TX, Robert Anthony Martinez (Kelly), of Milwaukee, WI; 4 nieces, Ashley Alfaro (Eddie), of Houston, TX, Yvette Mason (Cory), Vicky Martinez, Rebecca Martinez, all of Milwaukee, WI; 2 grandnephews, Ethan Alfaro, Even Alfaro; & 3 grandnieces, Sophia Martinez, Leah Martinez, & Ava Martinez. Also surviving are numerous cousins.

Visitation will be 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a 6:00 p.m. rosary, Monday, January 23, 2022, at Guerra Funeral Home of Weslaco – Chapel of The Angels. Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at San Martin De Porres Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Aaron Martinez, Eddie Alfaro, Mike De Los Santos, Trae Martinez, Ernesto Cavazos, & Jaime De La Peña. Arrangements are under the direction of Guerra Funeral Home of Weslaco, Inc., 2602 N. Texas Ave., Weslaco, TX (956) 969-1461.

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