Jose Garza

Age 78, of Mt. Morris, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. A funeral service will take place 2:00 pm, Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services, 1194 E. Mt. Morris Rd. Mt. Morris, Michigan, 48458. Pastor David Randall officiating with burial to follow at Flint Memorial Park Cemetery. Joe’s family will be present at the funeral home on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to receive friends from 11:00 am until the time of service at 2:00 pm. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Joe’s tribute wall at martinfuneralhome.com. Those desiring, may send memorial contributions directly to the family at https://venmo.com/code?user_id=3160178115477504192&created=1780685499. Envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. 

Born on February 12, 1948, in McAllen, Texas Joe was the cherished son of Jose and Cipriana (Campos) Garza. On January 29, 1975, he married the love of his life, Dorothy Mallon, in McAllen, beginning a beautiful life journey together.

Known affectionately as “Shoeshine Joe,” Joe dedicated 40 years as a shoe shiner at Bishop Airport in Flint, where his warm smile and kind spirit touched many lives. Alongside his beloved wife, he co-owned Joe & Dorothy’s Airport Services, a testament to their hard work and commitment to their community.

Joe’s heart was fullest when surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he treasured every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating countless memories filled with love and laughter.

In his free time, Joe found joy in his hobbies: metal detecting, fishing, coin collecting, gold mining, faceting, and lapidary—activities that reflected his love for the outdoors. He was deeply loved by all who knew him, and his presence will be profoundly missed.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Dorothy; his six children: Belinda Gamboa, Cynthia Walker, Esteban Garza, Sonya (TJ) Schwede, Jose Garza, Jr., and Krystal Garza; thirteen grandchildren: Randy, Jorge, Sergio, Edward, Angel, Jowell, Cameron, Hunter, Isaiah, Ciprianna, Machai, Jacey, and Ryleigh; numerous great-grandchildren; his mother, Juanita Garza; siblings: Jose, Jr., Alicia (Lupé), and Raul; and many other family and friends who hold his memory dear.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Rogelio and Angelica.