Jose Mendoza, 85 of Friona passed away March 23, 2026 in Friona. Viewing will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM in the Ron Smiley Memorial Chapel of the funeral home with Celebration of Life Services scheduled for 2:00 PM Friday, March 27, 2026 in the Friona Methodist Church with Pastor Ramiro Ramirez, officiating. Burial following in the Friona Cemetery entrusted to HANSARD FAMILY Funeral Home of Friona.

Jose was born on April 14, 1940, in Llano, Texas, to Daniel and Rumalda Mendoza. He was known as a strong, hardworking man who took great pride in everything he did. Jose had a deep passion for his welding and construction business, to which he devoted most of his life. In 1990 he started a muffler business, where he found great joy in his work. He especially enjoyed seeing his customers' reactions after installing their mufflers—he truly lived for that fresh muffler rumble.

As a skilled welder, Jose dedicated much of his life to his craft. He was not one to sit still—he loved to stay busy and often spent his time driving around and staying active.

Jose was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Esther C. Mendoza; his parents, Daniel and Rumalda Mendoza; his son, Joe Albert Mendoza; and five brothers and two sisters.

He is survived by his loving family: four daughters, Yolanda Martinez and husband Mauricio, Elizabeth Romero and husband David, both of Friona, and Frances Hurwitz and husband Duane of Duncan, Oklahoma, and Damiana Mendoza of Breckenridge, CO.; and three sons, Jesse Mendoza and wife Gina of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Gilbert Mendoza and wife Michelle of Elk Horn, Nebraska, and Eddie Mendoza of Friona. He is also survived by three brothers and six sisters, 24 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.

Jose will be remembered for his strength, dedication, and the love he had for his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.

You may send blessings to the family and sign the online guest book exclusively at: hansardfamily.com