Texas Border Business
SAN ANTONIO – It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Joe Charles Karam, Sr., who left us on April 11, 2026, at the age of 83. Joe was born on April 6, 1943, in McAllen, TX, to Jesus Jose Karam, Sr. and Oralia Cavazos Karam. He was the first of six children: Aizar Sr. (Sylvia), Rosie (Beto Garcia), Rene (Lala), Irma (Anthony Contreras), and Jesus Jose (JJ) Karam, Jr.
Joe was a graduate of the 1961 McAllen High School class, where he played basketball and was a member of several clubs. He was voted “Best All-Around”, “Most Handsome”, and “Most Popular” by his classmates and stood out for having a charismatic personality. He received a scholarship at Pan American University and was a member of the basketball team that won the 1963 National Basketball Championship in the NAIA conference.
On April 4, 1964, he married the love of his life, Mary Jo Guerra. He dedicated his life to his family, always putting others before himself and showing us what it means to live with kindness and humility. Whether through his words of wisdom, his sense of humor, or simply his presence, he made those around him feel valued and deeply loved.
Joe began his career working with McKesson & Robbins as a pharmaceutical wholesaler calling on Pharmacies and hospitals from Brownsville to Roma, Texas. He worked for them for twenty years. He retired from that career to become a Financial Advisor with A.L. Williams and then transferred to Capital Choice Financial Services. As a Financial Advisor, the highlight of his job was helping others start an investment plan for retirement and ensuring they had life insurance.
Joe was an avid hunter, rancher, fisherman, poker player, and sports fan. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family-sharing stories, offering advice, and creating memories that will stay with us forever.
Joe will be remembered for his hard work, his resilience, and his generous heart. He taught us the importance of honesty, compassion, and perseverance, lessons that will continue to guide us throughout our lives. We find peace knowing he was strong in his faith and is now with our Lord Jesus Christ in Heaven.
Joe is survived by his spouse of 63 years, Mary Jo Karam, his sisters, Rosie (Beto Garcia) and Irma (Anthony Contreras), as well as his children, Naema (Robert) Thims, Joe Jr. (Robin), and Isaac J. (Elizabeth), and his eight grandchildren: Jacob Karam, Carley (Nick) Isbell, Danielle Saenz, Ryan Karam, Tori Karam, Victoria Saenz, Hannah Thims, and Samuel Thims, as well as many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
A “Celebration of Life” Service was held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at Baptist Temple, 2001 W. Trenton Road, in McAllen, Texas 78504.
Though he is no longer with us, his love remains in everything we do. We will carry his memory in our hearts always.
Rest in peace, Dad. You will never be forgotten.
