Michael Anthony Leija, Jr.

With saddened hearts, we bid farewell to our beloved son, Michael Anthony Leija, Jr. 18, who joined our Lord in his heavenly kingdom on Sunday, March 10, 2024, after bravely battling cancer. His departure leaves a void in our lives that can never be filled, yet his infectious smile and unwavering positivity will forever echo in our hearts. Although our hearts ache with the absence of his presence, we find solace knowing that he is finally at peace and free from illness. Continue to shine bright in the heavens above our sweet boy. We will miss you forever. 

Michael was a proud 2023 graduate of J.W. Nixon High School where he participated in the film club, drama club for four years, was part of the Vidal Magnet Trevino school for four years, National Honor Society for three years, volunteered at The Golden Heart Project, part of the crew for Hedwig and The Angry Inch with The Laredo Theatre Guild, and participated in the City of Laredo Youth Council. Michael attended Texas State University majoring in Theatre with a minor in History. He was an avid wrestling enthusiast who was a fan of John Cena. Michael Anthony was an amazing, loving brother to his siblings and a great friend who would give the shirt off his back to help a friend. He was sure of his catholic religion and beliefs and had such a positive disposition. He often could be seen helping his family prepare for holidays and events. 

Left to cherish his memory are his parents, Michael and Valerie Leija; siblings, Madison, Meaghan, and Matthew Leija; his paternal grandfather, Mario Alberto Leija, Sr.; maternal grandmother, Aida Trevino; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Pearl A. Leija, and his maternal grandfather Sergio Trevino, Jr. 

The family will receive condolences on Friday, March 15, 2024, from 5 to 9 P.M. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapel, 1410 Jacaman Rd., where a rosary will be offered at 7:00PM. 

The procession will depart the chapel at 10:30AM on Saturday, March 16, 2024, to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, where a mass will be held at 11:00AM.  

A private cremation will be held at a later date. 

Pallbearers: Mario A. Leija, Jr., Joseph J. Leija, Edmundo Perez, Juan G. Cerda, Jr., Abraham Lopez, Antonio E. Ramirez, Jesse Padilla, Cody A. Arnold; Honorary Pallbearers: Mario A. Leija, Sr., Matthew A. Leija, John Trevino, David Arnold, Joseph J. Leija, Jr., & Junior Ramirez.

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.