Felipe "Jesse" Solis, Jr.

Felipe DeJesus Solis Jr. aka “Jesse”, 75, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at 1:21 a.m. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, coach, and devoted Catholic whose life was defined by faith, family, honesty, and quiet strength.
Jesse was born on June 20, 1951, in Galveston, Texas, to Felipe DeJesus Solis Sr. and Evangelina Castañeda Solis. He grew up in Galveston County and went on to build a life centered around love, service, and dedication to others.
Jesse married the love of his life, Maria Gonzalez Solis, on November 20th, 1971. Their love story began when they were only 15 years old, and together they shared a lifetime of memories, devotion, and partnership. Their marriage was a true example of commitment, loyalty, and enduring love.
Jesse was a proud father to his two children, Jason Wayne Solis and Christina Elissa Solis, and a loving and devoted grandfather to his grandson, Ronald Lee Wells III and granddaughter, Giselle Candal. He was a lifelong role model to his family, showing through his actions what it meant to be a good person, a good man, and a loving father and grandfather. He coached both of his children in Little League and was always present in the ways that mattered most.
For 30 years, Jesse served as a Texas history teacher at Stephen F. Austin Middle School, where he taught 7th grade. Through his career, he impacted countless students, sharing not only his knowledge and love of history but also the values of discipline, respect, and integrity.
Jesse lived a full and beautiful life. He loved traveling the world, taking cruises, going on vacations, fishing, boating, and cheering on his Houston Astros and Houston Rockets. He was also a Corvette fanatic and enjoyed racing Corvettes alongside his wife, Maria. Though he was often quiet, his presence was strong, steady, and deeply felt by those who knew and loved him.
A man of deep Catholic faith, Jesse remained devoted to God throughout his life. Even while traveling, he made it a point to find a church and attend Mass. His faith guided the way he lived: honestly, humbly, and with love for his family.
Jesse is survived by his loving wife, Maria “Fina” Solis; children, Jason Wayne Solis and Christina Elissa Solis(husband: Ronald Lee Wells Jr); grandson, Ronald Lee Wells III; brothers, Mario Solis (wife: Cindy) and Michael Solis (wife: Mary); sisters-in-law, Anita, Irene(husband: Herman), Elida, Carmen and brother-in laws: Rocky, Ernie, Jimmy, and Stephen, many other family members, friends, former students, and loved ones whose lives were touched by him.
He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a dedicated teacher, a faithful Catholic, and a man who did everything he could to live a good and honest life. His legacy will continue through the family he loved, the students he taught, and the example he leaves behind.
Services will be held on July 2, 2026, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Carnes Funeral Home-Texas City, followed by a 11:00 a.m. Catholic Mass at Shrine of the True Cross in Dickinson.
Jesse’s family takes comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering and is now at peace with the Lord. His love, lessons, and quiet strength will remain with them always.