CONFIRMED: Juan D. Urias, Retired, Veteran, US Air Force, Vietnam (178-26) 6 Nov 26

US AIR FORCE RETIRED VETERAN – VIETNAM WAR

The family of Mr. Juan D. Urias, a US Air Force (Ret.) Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services, and the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.

MSgt (Ret) Juan D. Urias was called home on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the age of 85. Born in Fort Stockton, Texas, Juan later made his home in San Antonio, Texas, where he built a life marked by hard work, dedication, service, and a strong commitment to his family.

Juan proudly served in the United States Air Force for 22 years. During the Vietnam War, he served as an aerial combat photographer, documenting a chapter of history through his lens. His military service reflected his dedication to duty and his willingness to serve his country. While still in the Air Force, Juan also entered the pharmaceutical field, demonstrating the determination and work ethic that would define him throughout his life.

Those who knew Juan knew a man with a strong will and a personality all his own. He could be stubborn and set in his ways, but he was also generous, hardworking, dependable, and protective of the people he loved. He believed in discipline, responsibility, and doing things the right way. These were values he instilled in his children, preparing them to face life’s challenges with strength and perseverance. He was a man his family could count on, someone who believed that taking care of those you loved was one of life’s most important responsibilities.

Juan often showed his love through his actions rather than his words, especially during his younger years. He worked hard, looked out for his family, and did what he believed a father should do. As the years passed, he became more comfortable expressing his feelings aloud, and hearing him say “I love you” became a meaningful part of his later life. His love may not always have been spoken, but it was part of the life he built and the lessons he passed down to his children.

Outside of work and family responsibilities, Juan enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life his own. He was a great cook who knew how to bring people together over a good meal. He enjoyed visiting family and friends, spending time at the casinos, and occasionally sharing stories from his military days. His war stories offered glimpses into experiences that shaped his life, and those conversations will remain part of the memories his loved ones carry with them.

To his grandchildren, Juan was lovingly known as “Papu,” a special name that will forever be connected to their memories of him. Being Papu was another part of his lasting family legacy; one carried forward by the 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren who will continue to remember him and the place he holds in their family. Though some of his children and grandchildren live out of state, the family connection remains an important part of the story he leaves behind.

Juan is preceded in death by his mother (Maxima), step-father (Jose), brothers (Mike, Pablo, Gilberto & Ismael), and sister (Christina). He is survived by his four children Sandra (Steven) Abeyta, Jeffrey Urias, Melinda (Andrew) Pace, Sonia (Garry) Finch, 12 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, brother (Hector), and numerous nieces and nephews. His legacy lives on through the family he helped raise, the values he passed down, and the memories that will continue to be shared across generations.

Juan will be remembered as a proud Air Force veteran, a hardworking man, a protective father, a beloved Papu, and a man who lived life in his own way. His stubbornness was part of his character, his generosity was part of his heart, and his strength was evident in the way he approached life and cared for those around him.

His life was more than the years he lived or the work he accomplished. It was also the family he helped raise, the stories he shared, the meals he prepared, and the memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Juan’s legacy will endure in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, in the values they carry, the stories they tell, and the love that continues across generations.

Rest in peace, Daddy (Juan). Your watch is over, but your legacy lives on. You will always be remembered as our Daddy, Papu, Tío, Primo, and so much more.

We love you more than words can describe and we miss you beyond measure!

WEATHER: Hi 77 / Lo 57, 0 % Chance of Rain, 78 % Humidity, Wind: 8 mph N

REQUESTOR: Melinda Pace, Daughter

 

STAGING: 11:00 am, Friday, November 6, 2026

Hillcrest Funeral Home

1281 Bandera Road

San Antonio, Texas 78228

https://goo.gl/maps/NMd3fcFpArz

 

BRIEFING: 11:15 am

 

HONOR LINE: 11:50 am

 

**THIS IS A MOTORCYCLE ESCORT ONLY. NO CAGES PLEASE

 

KSU: 12:00 pm

 

**THE CAGES WILL MEET AT THE CHURCH

 

SERVICE: 12:30 pm

Holy Rosary Catholic Church

159 Camino Santa Maria Street

San Antonio, Texas 78228

https://goo.gl/maps/eC8KbT7bapkqv6pCA

 

KSU: 2:15 pm (Semper Gumby)

 

INTERMENT: 3:00 pm – Shelter #1 (Call to Verify)

Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery

1520 Harry Wurzbach Road

San Antonio, Texas 78209

https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9

 

RC: Pete “Sea Dog” Johnson

pfjohn127@gmail.com

 

FC: Charles “Music Man” Jones

Cj083206@gmail.com

 

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS

1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.

2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.

3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!

***Safety Notice***

Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.

Funeral Processions/Escorts

EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.

At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.

If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.

Warm Regards,

Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223

“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers