Gabriel Mendoza, 37, of Blackshear, passed away Thursday night, December 25, 2025, at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, FL, following an extended illness.
Born April 19, 1988, in Prosser, Washington, he was a son of Gonzalo and Jesus Rojas Mendoza. He lived in Pierce County for most of his life and was a 2006 graduate of Pierce County High School. He attended automotive school in Orlando, Florida and had worked as a union carpenter with Local 256 of Savannah.
“It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who has been the best part of our lives. When that person is gone, there is a hole where they used to be in your life. That is what many are feeling right now,” said his family. “Some knew Gabe better than others, but it is obvious that he has impacted each person’s life he has come across. In such a difficult time, it is important to remember all the good memories you all have shared with Gabe.”
“Gabe was a man of his word, one who would lend a helping hand, even to a stranger, a man who loved his wife and kids and not only was their protector but their constant happiness in life. A family man who loved everyone and made sure they knew it. Gabe was the missing puzzle piece, he’s the one that kept everyone together. He was sweet, kind, and caring and loved everyone equally. A man who loved to have fun but was as equally hardworking. He took pride in his work, and the relationships he made over the years with his Union Brothers and Sisters shows proof to that. Gabriel would not want us to be sad but rejoice in his Homecoming. In this life, we should all strive to be a little more like Gabe,” said his family.
Survivors include his wife, Christine Mendoza, Blackshear; four children, Cameron Rowe, Gabriel Mendoza, Miah Mendoza and Lucas Mendoza; parents, Gonzalo Mendoza of Mexico and Jesus Rojas Mendoza, Blackshear; sister, Beatriz Ortega (husband Arsenio), Baxley; two brothers, Dabid Mendoza and Gonzalo Mendoza Jr., both of Blackshear and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.
A visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29, at the funeral home.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.
Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear was in charge of arrangements.
