Julio Gonzalez

BROWNSVILLE, TX. – Julio Gonzalez, 83, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, the 13th of May 2026 in the comfort of his residence surrounded by his loving family, following a long battle with cancer.

Born in San Benito, Texas, on May 19, 1942, to Victoriana "Tanita" Madrigal and Jesus E. Gonzalez, Julio was a 1961 graduate of St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville. Initially working as a welder, he was trained as a diesel mechanic, setting the stage for his future work on shrimp boats. From 1964 to 1966, he served honorably in the U.S. Army as a medic and paratrooper in the Vietnam War.

An entrepreneur at heart, Julio purchased his first shrimp boat in 1969, marking the beginning of many successful years in the shrimp business. Julio’s drive and strong work ethic were evident in everything he did, and designing his own boats was among his proudest achievements. He later directed his energy to agriculture and real estate development in the Brownsville area. In his free time, he enjoyed racing horses, cooking for family and friends, particularly during the holidays, and beating the odds at the casino.

Julio was preceded in death by his son, Julio Gonzalez II; his brother, Carlos; and his parents Tanita and Jesus. 

He is survived by his wife, Isaura Gonzalez, four daughters, four grandchildren, five siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, the 19th of May 2026, which would have been his 84th birthday, between the hours of ten o'clock in the morning and one o'clock in the afternoon, with military honors to commence at twelve noon, with a Celebration of Life service to follow, within the East Chapel of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home.

In lieu of floral arrangements and customary remembrances, those who would like to make a contribution in his memory may contribute to a charity of their choice.

Memories of Julio may be shared at www.darlingmouser.com.

Personalized funeral arrangements directed by Steven R. Hieu Bailey, CFSP and Staff have been entrusted to the care of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home at 945 Palm Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas 78520, (956) 546-7111.