09/18/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jose D. Garcia, a founding member of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center and a lifelong advocate for farmworker families, equity, and justice.
Jose was a teacher, a leader in Migrant Education, and a tireless champion for his community. In the early days of Virginia Garcia, Jose and a small group of community members traveled to Seattle to advocate with the Sisters of Providence for the funding that would help make the health center possible. His vision, determination, and commitment helped change the course of health care in our community and laid the foundation for the work Virginia Garcia continues today.
As Virginia Garcia Memorial Foundation board member Margaret Garza shared, Jose was “highly liked, respected and driven for equity and justice,” and served as a role model for many in the community.
We are grateful for Jose’s remarkable life and for the lasting impact he made on our community. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him.
May his legacy continue to inspire the work of Virginia Garcia for generations to come.
