Juan G. Palacios, Jr.

In Loving Memory of Lieutenant Juan G. Palacios
February 26, 1950–September 29, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lieutenant Juan G. Palacios, who passed away peacefully at his residence on September 29, 2026, at the age of 76.

Juan was born on February 26, 1950. Throughout his life, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and public servant whose dedication to his family and community will always be remembered.

Juan proudly dedicated more than 33 years of his life to the fire service, serving from October 1, 1971, until his retirement on February 28, 2005. During his distinguished career, he rose to the rank of lieutenant. His many years as a firefighter were a testament to his courage, dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving and protecting his community.

Following his retirement from the fire department, Juan continued working at Tierra Santa Golf Course, where he was a dedicated employee for more than 25 years. An avid golfer, Juan had a true passion for the game. The golf course became a special part of his life, providing him with countless friendships, memories, and many happy days spent doing something he genuinely loved.

Juan shared 30 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Maria Magdalena Palacios, with whom he built a life filled with family and cherished memories.

He is survived by his children, Mario Palacios; Marco (Candy) Palacios; and Rebecca (Robert) Shadburne.

He is also survived by his stepchildren, Oswaldo Oropeza, Tania Oropeza, and Jonathan Oropeza; his 12 beloved grandchildren; and his siblings, Anita P. Mora-Ruben Perez, Hector (Lupita) Palacios, and Oscar Palacios. He is also survived by his nephews, nieces, extended family members, friends, fellow firefighters, coworkers, and members of the golfing community who were fortunate to know him.

Juan was preceded in death by his father, Juan G. Palacios; his mother, Amelia Palacios; and his sister, Imelda Palacios.

Juan leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, friendship, and love for his family. To those who knew him through the fire department, he will be remembered as Lieutenant Palacios, a man who devoted decades of his life to serving others. To those who knew him from the golf course, he will be remembered for his love of the game and the friendships he formed there. To his family, he will always be remembered as the husband, father, grandfather, and loved one whose presence meant so much.

His passing leaves an emptiness that cannot be filled, but the memories, lessons, laughter, and love he shared throughout his 76 years will continue to live on through everyone who knew and loved him.

Funeral Services
Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Juan at Rivera Funeral Home in McAllen.
Monday, October 5, 2026: Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m., with a service beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026: Family and friends will gather at Rivera Funeral Home at 8:30 a.m., with a service at 10:00 a.m.
The funeral procession will depart for Valley Memorial Cemetery at approximately 10:30 a.m., where Juan will be laid to rest following an 11:00 a.m. cemetery service.

Rest in peace, Lieutenant Juan G. Palacios.

Your service is complete, your duty is done, and your legacy will live on through the family, friends, and community whose lives you touched.

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