Beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, Mario Soto Loya Jr., 79, longtime resident of El Paso, TX, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Mario was born in Las Cruces, NM on November 23, 1945 to Mario S. Loya, Sr. and Josefina Loya, he was the oldest of seven children. Mario graduated from Thomas Jefferson high school, where he met his beloved wife, Marta Sanchez. They shared a wonderful marriage of 59 years until Mario’s passing. 

He is survived by Marta S. Loya, children Dr. Mark and Dr. Shivonne Loya, Jay and Yvonne Saenz, Yvette Loya Duran, Mario Loya III, grandchildren Justin Loya, Jordan Loya Cruz, Jacquelyn Loya, Jewell Loya Alexis, Brynne Loya, Jaxson Loya, Jaydon and Joshua Seals, Milo and Mila Saenz, and siblings Jose Luis Loya, Rosa Hernandez, Norma Genera, Ninfa Huerta and preceded in death by Josefina and Mario S Loya Sr., Oscar and Sylvia Loya and Victor Loya.

He is also survived by one great grandchild and extended family and friends who will miss him dearly. 

A headstrong, wise, and deeply intelligent man, Mario had a gift for knowing about all things. He was the one family and friends could turn to for advice, perspective, or simply a good story. His sharp mind, strong will, and unwavering presence shaped the lives of those around him in countless ways. He loved fishing, hunting, NASCAR, and the beach. 

The rosary will be Thursday night Oct 2 at San Jose Funeral Home (East side), 10950 Pellicano Dr., 79935 (915) 590-8700 at 7:00 PM, 10950 Pellicano Dr., EP, TX. Public view is from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. 

The funeral mass will be on Friday, Oct 3rd starting at the 1:00 PM and Guardian Angel Catholic Church and burial at 2:30 at the Fort Bliss National Cemetery.