Joseph Bennett Vasquez

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of Joseph Vasquez on November 11, 2025. Joey was a devoted husband to his love, Patsy, for 58 years and the proud and loving father to his children, JoAnn Nelson, Eric Vasquez and Eric Nelson. He also cherished time with his grandchildren, Robin, Kyle, Bailey and Andy.

Born on January 30, 1942, in New Haven, Michigan, Joey was the son of Margarito and Erie Vasquez. He graduated from Lyford High School and furthered his education at the FBI National Leadership Academy.

Joey was a proud Navy Veteran who served from September 1959 through September 1962. Joey would continue his service to his country and community when he became a Cameron County Sheriff’s Deputy in 1969. Joey then joined the Harlingen Police Department in 1970 where he would go on to serve 34 years, retiring as a Captain in 2004.

An active member of his community, Joey was a Past Master of Harlingen Masonic Lodge #1132 and a 32-degree Scottish Rite Mason. He was also known for his passion for motorcycling and gunsmithing.

Joey is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mickey Garcia, and his brother-in-law, Wally Garcia. He is survived by his wife, Patsy Vasquez; children JoAnn Nelson (Eric) and Eric Vasquez; grandchildren Robin Ashley Nelson, Kyle Eric Nelson, Bailey Elizabeth Ann Nelson, and Andy Vasquez; as well as his beloved cat, Larry.

The family expresses their sincere gratitude to Calidad Home Health and Hospice of La Feria, Texas, for their compassionate care.

The Vasquez family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Mont Meta Memorial Park.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Eric Vasquez, Eric Nelson, Kyle Nelson, Chris Nelson, Chris Springstead, and Cristobal Martinez. Honorary pallbearer will be Alfredo Alvear.

For those wishing to make a memorial donation in Joey’s memory, contributions may be made to the Harlingen Humane Society at 1106 Markowsky Ave, Harlingen, TX 78550.

Joey will always be remembered for his unwavering love and commitment to his family and friends, and for his strong sense of duty to his country and community.

His was a life well lived, and he will be missed.