In Loving Memory of Ernesto Peña Jr.
Ernesto Peña Jr., age seventy-nine, of Brownsville, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, surrounded by his daughter and son.
Born on April 26, 1947, in Harlingen, Texas, Ernesto, affectionately known as “Ernie” or “Jr.,” lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and love for his family.
Ernesto Peña Jr. was a kind-hearted, selfless, and dependable man whose generosity, patience, and tireless work ethic touched everyone who knew him. A devoted husband to his beloved wife, Bertha; a loving father and grandfather; a cherished brother; and a trusted friend, he dedicated his life to serving his family and those fortunate enough to cross his path. He found great joy in classic cars and spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters. Ernesto will be remembered for the strength of his character, the wisdom he shared, and the lasting impact he made on those around him.
For more than 40 years, Ernesto worked alongside his brothers selling farm equipment at Pena’s Implement Co. in Brownsville, Texas. He genuinely enjoyed helping people, always taking the time to understand their needs. Known for his generosity and caring nature, Ernesto was the type of man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it, and someone you could call in an emergency, knowing he would be there to help.
While he took great pride in his work and the friendships he made over the years, his greatest source of pride was his family. Nothing brought Ernesto greater happiness than spending time with his loved ones, especially watching his children and granddaughters grow and succeed. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend his granddaughters’ activities and performances, from football game dance performances and recitals to acting performances and other special events. Their accomplishments and happiness brought him immeasurable joy.
In his spare time, Ernesto enjoyed attending classic car shows, admiring antique farm equipment, and attending auto racing events. He also loved spending time with his beloved dog, Bella, whose companionship brought him great comfort and joy. These passions brought him countless hours of enjoyment and allowed him to share special memories with family and friends.
Above all, Ernesto cherished his family. He is survived by his loving mother, Maria Guadalupe Peña; his son, Ernesto Peña III (Cynthia Astrid Peña); his daughter, Oneida Peña Jimenez (Richard Douglas Jimenez Jr.); his beloved granddaughters, Lorena Astrid Peña and Emma Valentina Peña; his brother, Joel Peña (Sonya Alicia Peña); his sisters, Melba Block (Dr. Steven Block) and Olivette Fisher (Robert William Fisher); his sister-in-law, Ana del Rosario Peña, widow of his late brother, Eliseo Saul Peña; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bertha Alicia Peña; his daughter, Laura Loraine Peña; his father, Ernesto Peña Sr.; and his brother, Eliseo Saul Peña.
Though he will be deeply missed, his love, kindness, and legacy will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Forever loved, forever remembered.
Monday, June 22nd, 2026
Sunset Memorial Funeral Home
Visitation:
1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Holy Rosary:
6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026
Sunset Memorial Funeral Home
The chapel opens at 8:00 a.m.
Funeral Mass:
10:00 a.m.
Lord of Divine Mercy Catholic Church
Interment:
11:00 a.m.
Buena Vista Burial Park
Military Honors to be conducted at the gravesite.
Services have been entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home in Brownsville, Texas. 657 Springmart Boulevard, Brownsville, Texas, 78526. For more information, please call (956) 350-8485.
To send flowers or a plant to the family in memory of Mr. Ernesto Peña Jr., please visit https://shalomflorals.com or call (956) 572-3872.
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