Jose Hilario Canales passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family in Dallas, Texas. His life was one marked by perseverance, hard work, family, music, laughter, and an enduring love for the people around him.

Jose was born on July 29, 1937, in Mexico to his loving parents, Maria Villarreal and Esteban Canales. At the age of five, he was brought to the United States. He was one of twelve children. From an early age, Jose learned the meaning of hard work, sacrifice, and responsibility. As a young man, he picked cotton in the fields, forced to put his education aside to help provide for his family. Those early experiences helped shape the strong work ethic, determination, and resourcefulness that would define him throughout his life.

In his early years, he worked as a delivery driver for Modern Pharmacy in Robstown, Texas. Later he made his way to Dallas, where he became part of the booming workforce. Then, on September 8,1964, he became a U.S. naturalized citizen. He went on to build a long successful career with Dallas Airmotive, where he worked as a highly skilled machinist until his well-deserved retirement. He was a hardworking and self-taught man who believed that, with dedication and perseverance, there was nothing that could not be learned. He often encouraged his children to believe in themselves and reminded them that they could accomplish anything they set their minds to.

In the 1980s, Jose became an important part of his brother Johnny Canales’ television career, serving as the stage manager for The Johnny Canales Show. Together, Jose and his brother Johnny played a meaningful role in Tejano music history by helping showcase emerging Tejano artists and bands to audiences across the country. Through their work, they helped give talented musicians a platform to share their music and reach new audiences. Among the artists whose careers benefited from that exposure was the legendary Selena Quintanilla, who would go on to become one of the most beloved and influential figures in Tejano music.

Music was one of Jose’s greatest joys. He played bass guitar in the Norteño band, Los Grande 4 de Ramon Lopez, for nearly 40 years. He then crossed over to playing guitar and singing in the church choir. His musical talents were shared generously with others, and he played and sang at church services, weddings, funerals, family gatherings, and other special occasions. Through his music, Jose brought joy, comfort, and togetherness to those around him.

Throughout his life, Jose was blessed with eight children, whom he loved dearly. He was a devoted father who treasured every moment spent with his family. Some of their most cherished memories include trips to the beach, boat rides, fishing trips, and countless days enjoying one another’s company.

Jose was preceded in death by his mother and father; eight of his siblings; his son Joaquin, and his wife, Aurora.

He leaves behind his daughters, Melissa and Monica; his sons, Jose Hilario Jr., Luis Enrique, Efraín, Javier, and Jaime; his 13 grandchildren; and numerous beloved relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Jose will be remembered as a hardworking, talented, generous, and loving man. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, musician, and friend whose life touched many people. His strength and perseverance, his love for music, and his sense of humor will all be part of the stories his family carries forward.

Though he is no longer with us, the music he loved, the family he cherished, the laughter he created, and the legacy he helped build will ensure that Jose Hilario Canales will never be forgotten.