Roll Call Tribute

Guillermo Jose Vela 

February 14, 1942 - November 24, 2024 

Guillermo Jose Vela, 82, joined our Lord in His heavenly kingdom on Sunday, November 24, 2024.

Guillermo was a man of great integrity and warmth, Guillermo was a distinguished graduate of St. Joseph Academy, class of 1960. Furthering his education at Texas A&M University, graduating in 1964, where he was a member of the Fighting B1 Company and Ross Volunteer’s. As well as the Honor Guard for the Governor of Texas. After completing his education, he bravely served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War, where he displayed unwavering courage and dedication.

Throughout his life, Guillermo's passion for service and community was evident. Upon returning from Vietnam, he settled in Houston, where he married Jerri Jackson. Memo, Jerri and the two boys moved to Manvel Texas where he started Vela Insurance Agency. Memo was an active distinguished Rotarian for the Alvin/Manvel Chapter and sat on the board of directors for Alvin Community College and Alvin State Bank.

In the early 2000s, Guillermo retired from the insurance industry and returned to his roots in Laredo, where he rekindled his lifelong love for ranching. His dedication to his craft and the land was unwavering. This is where he found true joy and fulfillment in tending to his cattle and embracing the rural way of life, earning several accolades for his Ranch Management, including Businessman Rancher of the Year.

Guillermo will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, generosity, and love for his family and community will forever be remembered.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Carlos Vela, Sr. and Maria Patria Montemayor Vela.

Left to cherish his memory are his children; Marcos Vela and David (Tracy) Vela; grandchildren; Alec Vela, Jacob Carmona, Parker Vela, and Emma Vela, sibling; Carlos (Tita) Vela, Jr. and Arturo (Pinky) Vela, as well as numerous, family and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Sunday afternoon, December 29, 2024 from 12:30pm to 4:00 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Prayer Service will be held at 12:30p.m.

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.