Jacinto "Jay" David Ganem

Jacinto “Jay” David Ganem, 51, of Texas City, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Jay was born and raised in Galveston, Texas, on April 13, 1975, to Sara and Elias Ganem, Sr. He was the beloved husband of Joanna Ganem. Together, they shared 25 years of marriage and built a loving family.
He proudly dedicated 35 years of his life to UTMB, where he worked in the pharmacy. His dedication to his work and the people he worked alongside was an important part of his life. To his work family and those who knew him through school, he was affectionately known as Jason. Whether he was Jay or Jason, he was known for his warm personality and the genuine connections he made with the people around him.
He is survived by his wife, Joanna Ganem; his children, Alyssa Rodriguez (David), David Ganem (Vanessa Cruz), and Sara Ganem (Eduardo Macias); his grandchildren, Avery and Ezra Rodriguez; his parents, Sara and Elias Ganem, Sr.; his brother, Elias Ganem, Jr. (Sonya); his nephew, Esteban Ganem; his niece & Goddaughter, Isabella Ganem; his Godson, Angel “Andy” Torres; his brother-in-law, Joseph Alvarado, III (JoAnna); sister-in-law, Kristan Vaughn (Ken Wolf); special Aunt & Uncle, Mary and Gus Hernandez; many cousins of California and Texas and numerous family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Adelina and Jacinto Torres, and Dolores Vasquez and Elias Ganem and father-in-law, Joseph Alvarado, Jr.
Jay was known for his fun-loving spirit, infectious smile, and wonderful ability to make everyone around him feel welcome and have a good time. He cherished time spent with family and friends, especially when those moments were filled with music, laughter, and good company. Jay had a deep love for all genres of music, especially since he was often the D.J. for most family gatherings. He was an old soul between loving old country, classic rock, Frank Sinatra and Elvis, but Tejano-Conjunto music held a special place in his heart. He loved playing his accordion and filling the room with the music he enjoyed so much. Music was an important part of who Jay was, and some of his happiest memories were made playing, dancing, laughing, and simply enjoying life with the people he loved.
A proud Houston sports fan, Jay passionately supported the Astros, Texans, and Rockets and enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams whenever he could. He also enjoyed visiting casinos and traveling. Some of his favorite destinations included Las Vegas, California, San Antonio, and Mexico.
Above all, Jay loved his family. His smile, joyful laughter, love of music, and generous spirit brought happiness to so many people. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Honorary pallbearers are Elias Ganem, Jr., David Ganem, David Rodriguez, Eduardo Macias, Esteban Ganem and Angel “Andy” Torres.
A visitation will be held at Carnes Funeral Home in Texas City on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 9:00 am with a Rosary at 10:30 am, followed by a Celebration of the Liturgy of the Word Services with Deacon Ben Mizzara officiating.
Though Jay may no longer be here to play his accordion, share a laugh, cheer for his teams, or dance alongside the people he loved the memories he created will live on forever.

“May his music continue to play in our hearts, his
laughter echo in our memories, and his love live on through his family.”