Juan Manuel Zaragoza

Juan Manuel Zaragoza, 72, or Grand Prairie, Texas, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, June 9, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born on July 13, 1953, in Piedras Negras, Mexico to the late Antonia Zaragoza and the late Esperanza Negrete. Juan was a man of many talents and a true craftsman in every sense of the word. A skilled carpenter by trade, there seemed to be nothing he couldn't build, repair, or create with his hands. His artistic spirit shined through his beautiful paintings and murals, many of which can still be found throughout downtown Dallas. Whether working in carpentry, upholstery, painting, or any other project he set his mind to, Juan approached every task with dedication, creativity, and pride. Beyond his many talents, Juan was a man who deeply loved his family and friends. He shared 51 wonderful years with the love of his life, Janie "Gorda" Tijerina, building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He was a man of strong faith whose kindness, generosity, and welcoming spirit touched everyone he met. In fact, if you met Juan once, you had a friend for life. Juan enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved gathering with family and friends, sharing stories over a cold one, listening to music, cheering on his favorite soccer teams and sports teams, and admiring a good truck. Painting remained one of his greatest passions and favorite hobbies throughout his life. He was always present for those he loved, offering encouragement, wisdom, and a helping hand whenever it was needed. Known for his favorite saying, "50/50," Juan carried himself with a lighthearted outlook and an unwavering love for the people around him. His legacy of hard work, friendship, faith, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He is survived by; his lifelong partner, Janie “Gorda” Tijerina; lifelong daughters, Sonia Solis, and Renee Tijernia; grandchildren, Irae Martinez, Elias Martinez and wife Mayra, Nathan Urias, Cienna “Chulis” Trevino and fiancé Paul “Pablo” Navarro; 14 great grandchildren; sisters, Alicia Zaragoza, Leticia Sanchez, and Esperanza Rodriguez Catalina Duque; bother, Guillermo Zaragoza, and 26 nieces and nephews and a host of friends. A Celebration of Juan’s Life will be held Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 2pm in the chapel of Guerrero Dean Funeral Home, Pastor, Dennis King, Officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Guerrero-Dean Funeral Home under the direction of Aaron King, Funeral Director.

Juan Manuel Zaragoza

June 13, 1953 - June 9, 2026