John Joe Garay, 55, of Markham passed away July 21, 2026. He was born November 18, 1970, in Bay City. Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy in life was his family.

Survivors include his wife, Jo Ann Garay; daughters Brianna Jimenez, Shelbee Esquivel (James), Julianna Longoria (Michael), and Jessica Rowland (Gabriel); sons Jonathan Jimenez (Dizarey), Eric Reyes (Erica), and Joe “Nicky” Garay; brother Erasto Paniagua, Jr. (Jennifer); and 17 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Julia Valdez; his mother, Helen Paniagua; and his aunts Angelina Lopez and Mary Guajardo.

He was known for his kind heart, unwavering strength, and his ability to make those around him laugh. Joe had a lifelong passion for building race and muscle cars and took great pride in showcasing them at car shows. He loved his car community. He also found great fulfillment in coaching youth basketball, encouraging young athletes both on and off the court. Basketball was his favorite, and nothing brought him more pride than watching his children and grandchildren play. Whether he was cheering from the stands, celebrating their accomplishments, or offering words of encouragement, he was always their biggest fan. Joe also had a compassionate heart for animals and never hesitated to rescue or care for those in need.

His love, generosity, wisdom, and selfless spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Joe has taken his final victory lap, leaving behind a legacy of love that will never fade. Though we will miss him every day, we find peace knowing he is racing the streets of Heaven.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Sunday, July 26, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A rosary will be recited at 6:30 PM. The Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, with Rev. Augustine Owusu-Peprah officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jonathan Jimenez, Eric Reyes, Nicky Garay, James Esquivel, Michael Longoria, Sr. and Gabriel Rowland. Honorary Pallbearers will be Erasto Paniagua Jr., Joel Meijas, Jarad Mcelhenney, Rogelio “Jaimito” Lopez, Mark Gregurek, and Johnny Rodriguez.