Edward A. "Eddie" Gonzalez

Edward “Eddie” Gonzalez – Beloved Husband, Loving Father, Devoted Son, Caring Brother, Amazing Friend and Compassionate Pharmacist. For the past 50 years, Eddie has been most known for owning and operating Jay’s Pharmacy in Downtown McAllen, where he dedicated his life’s work serving thousands of customers throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Edward “Eddie” Arnold Gonzalez, 74, of McAllen, Texas, passed away surrounded by his loving family at Chi St. Lukes Baylor Hospital in Houston, Texas on March 7th, 2024. He was born in McAllen, Texas on July 23, 1949, to Carlos and Concha Gonzalez. Eddie was a cherished son and brother, bringing joy, laughter and boundless love into the lives of all those who loved him. His acts of kindness and unwavering support enriched the lives of his family and friends. Whether sharing in laughter, lending his ear or offering a helping hand, Eddie touched the hearts of many with his gentle spirit and genuine compassion. His legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire and uplift those fortunate enough to have known him. Eddie married Velma Arce in January 1974, they spent 50 cherished years creating a bond of love, companionship and making memories while raising their 3 children, Veronica, Eduardo and Armando. Their life journey together marked by unwavering devotion, shared joys and a connection that will forever remain a testament of their love. Eddie was an awesome father who provided a beacon of strength, love and guidance to his family with his selflessness and love that he gave to them each and every day. Eddie graduated from McAllen High School in 1967 and went on to pursue a double bachelor’s in biology and chemistry at Pan American University followed by his degree in Pharmacy at the University of Texas at Austin. After becoming a registered pharmacist in 1974, he returned back to his hometown and became the owner of Jay’s Pharmacy. Those that knew Eddie got to witness and experience firsthand his kindness, patience, generosity and dedication to his profession. He was a true health advocate for his customers with his compassionate demeanor, always sharing his knowledge and time with each cherished patron as he considered them part of his extended family. He also was an advocate for education and always supported each of his employees to pursue higher education and further their careers. Eddie valued friendship as one of life’s greatest treasurers, cultivating deep and lasting bonds with those around him. His warm smile, genuine empathy and unwavering loyalty endeared him to a wide circle of friends who he touched throughout his life. Eddie cherished moments spending time with loved ones, finding joy and creating memories that will forever live in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to call him a friend. His legacy of friendship serves as a reminder of the profound impact one can have through simple acts of kindness and genuine companionship. Eddie was preceded in death by his loving parents, Carlos V. Gonzalez and Concha O. Gonzalez. He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Velma O. Gonzalez, and his children, Veronica V. Gonzalez, Eduardo A. Gonzalez, Jr. and Dr. Armando J. Gonzalez. He is also survived by his siblings Carlos V. Gonzalez Jr., Dalinda (Arnaldo) Ramirez, Diana A. Gonzalez, and Robert (Laura) Gonzalez as well as numerous nieces, nephews and loved ones. The Gonzalez family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Juan Manuel Ortiz, Dr. Gabriel Loor and Chi St. Luke Baylor’s entire Lung Transplant Team for giving Eddie the gift of life through transplant in August of 2019 and will be forever grateful. We would also like to thank, Nora’s Home in Houston, Texas, Ambiance Florals & Rentals, Orchidee Social Events, Spark Paper Goods, Deysign, as well as the countless family, friends and loved ones who have supported him through his life. The family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers who have been an integral part of Eddie’s journey. Your unwavering support and patronage have meant the world to us as well as the kind words, trust, and loyalty which have been a source of strength and inspiration during his life’s journey. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to continuing Eddie’s legacy with the same dedication and commitment to excellence for years to come. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm with a 7:00pm Rosary at Kreidler Funeral Home in McAllen. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am on Monday, March 18, 2024 where Monsignor Gustavo Barrera will serve as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in McAllen.

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Edward A. "Eddie" Gonzalez

March 7, 2024