Texas Border Business
It is with profound respect and deep admiration that we announce the passing of Jose Luis Muñoz on July 6, 2024, at the age of 79. Jose Luis Muñoz, born on July 4, 1945, in Los Saenz, Texas, was a figure of great influence and respect in the broadcasting industry, particularly known for his remarkable career at KGBT AM Radio in Harlingen, Texas.
In 1972, Jose Luis began his journey at KGBT AM Radio as a translator. His exceptional talent and dedication quickly earned him a promotion to News Director eight months later. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, becoming General Sales Manager in 1980 and Vice President General Manager by 1983. As a Corporate Officer, he witnessed the company transition through three significant mergers, with the final merger integrating KGBT AM Radio into the renowned Spanish media conglomerate Univision.
Jose Luis’s career in broadcasting spanned 35 years, during which he received numerous awards and recognitions. One of his notable contributions was the production of “La Herencia,” a one-hour documentary on Conjunto music, which is now archived at the Institute of Texas Cultures at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, KGBT Radio was honored with two Marconi awards as Spanish Radio Station of the Year.
Jose Luis Muñoz was preceded in death by his parents, Gustavo Muñoz and Ernestina Sanchez Muñoz, and his brother, Noel Sanchez. He is survived by his wife, Oralia Cuellar Muñoz, his stepchildren, Belinda Olivarez and Samuel Rey Garcia, and his grandchildren, Derek and Kyle Olivarez, along with numerous relatives and friends.
Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home in Harlingen, TX, is handling the funeral arrangements. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, July 12th, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Trinity Funeral Chapel, with a rosary at 7:00 PM. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 13th, at 10:00 AM at St. Anthony Catholic Church, followed by entombment at Mont Meta Memorial Park Cemetery.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Muñoz family during this difficult time. May Jose Luis Muñoz’s legacy inspire those in the broadcasting industry and beyond (echovita.com)
