Esmerardo Hinojosa Quintanilla

Esmerardo Hinojosa Quintanilla, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 8, 2023. Born on August 5, 1937, in Kingsville, Texas, Esmerardo lived a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and continued to dedicate over 22 years as a postal specialist and environment support technician until his retirement. His unwavering sense of duty and dedication made him a highly respected figure among his colleagues.

Esmerardo's greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He found immense happiness in their laughter and never missed an opportunity to create lasting memories with them. Whether it was playing games, sharing stories, or simply being present, Esmerardo embraced every moment with his loved ones.  He had a passion for fishing, boxing, and football. Esmerardo had a special routine that brought him both peace and exercise. His daily walks at the local Walmart or H-E-B were well-known among the community. This simple activity offered him an opportunity to make genealogical connections with people which was one of his passions and he loved to observe the world around him.

During quieter moments, Esmerardo enjoyed playing solitaire card games which challenged his strategic thinking and provided him with relaxation. However, it was when playing solitaire and go fish with his beloved grandchildren that he truly found delight. The pure joy on their faces as they engaged in playful banter will forever be etched in the hearts of those who witnessed these precious moments.

Esmerardo Hinojosa Quintanilla will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for his kind, gentle, and compassionate nature. He had an incredible ability to connect with others, and his generous spirit touched the lives of everyone he encountered. His love knew no bounds, and his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Javiel A. and Petra H. Quintanilla; and brother, Javiel Quintanilla, Jr. 

Among those left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 61 years, Dalia B. Quintanilla; daughters, Thelma Q. (Tomas) Hernandez and Graciela “Grace” Q. (Orlando) Zepeda; grandchildren, Monika N. Hernandez, Gina M. Hernandez, Miranda L. Hernandez, Orlando Q. Zepeda, Alexis Q. Zepeda, and Carina Q. Zepeda; siblings, America Crouse and Jose Alberico (Dora) Quintanilla; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. 

The family will receive condolences from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 19, 2023, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, Texas; with a holy rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m.  A funeral mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, November 20, 2023, at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church.  A rite of committal and interment with full military honors will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi, TX.