Juan Jose "Oscar" Carrillo

JUAN JOSE “OSCAR” CARRILLO

April 16, 1935 – March 30, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Juan Jose “Oscar” Carrillo, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed member of the Laredo community, who departed this life on March 30, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on April 16, 1935, Oscar lived a life characterized by dedication, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and profession. 

Educated at St. Joseph Academy until the 8th grade and then graduating from Martin High School in 1952, Oscar began his remarkable journey in 1944 when he joined his uncle at M.J. Carrillo Company, Inc. His humble beginnings sweeping floors showcased his incredible work ethic, which would lead him to obtain his U.S. Customs Broker License in 1963, after passing the rigorous oral exam in which he scored a 99. In 1981, he proudly acquired the family business and oversaw its growth into one of Laredo's premier brokerage firms, celebrating 80 years of service in 2024. At the time of his passing, he held the oldest U.S. Customs Broker license in Laredo, a testament to his dedication to the industry. 

In 1956, Juan married his beloved Minerva, and together they created a nurturing home for their four beautiful daughters. A devoted mentor, he inspired not only his children but many others in the community, teaching the course "Fundamentals of Imports/Exports" at Laredo Junior College and guiding numerous aspiring brokers on their professional journeys. 

An avid sports fan, including College football, NBA basketball, and NFL football, Oscar found joy in traveling the world, embracing new experiences, and creating lasting memories with his family. He shared a special bond with his beloved dog, "Lil Eddie," who remained his faithful companion for 13 cherished years. His love for classic films brought him closer to his grandchildren, as they spent afternoons together, laughing through the antics of "My Cousin Vinny." Oscar had a particular fondness for the finer things in life, notably his cherished cars, proudly displaying his unique license plate, 19 CFR, that covers the Code of Federal Regulations for Customs and Customs Brokers.

A devoted family man, Oscar was also grounded in his faith, which guided him throughout his life. His legacy of hard work, kindness, and mentorship will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Minerva L. Carrillo; daughter, Minerva C. Gonzalez; parents, Juan and Teresa Carrillo; siblings, Blanca Carrillo, Yolanda Carrillo, Reverend Victor M. Carrillo, and Elia Brown.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Ana (Meliton) Rodriguez, Alma (Ramiro) Garza, Teresa (Roland) De La Garza; son-in-law, Randolph Gonzalez; grandchildren, John Randolph (Chelsea) Gonzalez, Clarissa (Mark) Fenker, Oscar Ramiro Garza, Laura Cecilia Garza, Meliton S. Rodriguez, Manuel A. Rodriguez; great-grandchildren, Evelyn G. Gonzalez, Jacob J. Fenker, Magdalene O. Fenker, Luna C. Pequeño, Marley C. Fenker, and Azalea G. Gonzalez; siblings, Raul J. Carrillo and Luis A. (Erendira) Carrillo; nieces whom he cared for like his own daughter’s Irma Del Barrio and Marty Delgado. He is also survived by numerous other loving relatives and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Tuesday evening, April 15, 2025 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Wednesday morning, April 16, 2025 departing at 9:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to St. Patrick Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Inurnment will follow at the family plot of the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to:

The Oscar and Minerva Carrillo Family Endowment

Supporting the Laredo College Logistics and Distribution Program

Endowment Donation Link

Oscar Carrillo was a distinguished leader and visionary in the field of international commerce. Through his unwavering faith and foresight, he and his fellow colleagues played a pivotal role in establishing Laredo as the leading port of entry in the United States. His enduring legacy continues to inspire and uplift the community he so deeply loved.

We extend our sincere appreciation for your prayers, kind expressions of sympathy, and continued support as we honor the memory of our cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend, and community leader.

With deepest gratitude,

The Carrillo Family

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; (956)722-8850.