Staff Sgt. Hector Leija

Staff Sgt. Hector Leija

Hector Leija Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 25, 2007.
Mark A. Lopez bonded with Hector Leija in high school, when both were on the football team. "To me, no one had your kind of tenacity or your kind of heart," Lopez wrote to his friend's Myspace.com page. "I'm not sure who started calling you 'Teen Wolf,' but I remember you always smiling when we did. And that was like you, never one to complain or be conceited and always one to count on to give a handshake in the halls." Leija, 27, of Houston, was killed by a sniper Jan. 24 in Baghdad. He was a 1997 high school graduate and was assigned to Fort Lewis. It was his third tour in Iraq. Leija was a National Honor Society student, belonged to the Bible club, played football and was a Future Farmers of America member. He was stationed in Germany and had served in Macedonia and Kosovo. "He was a good kid. Quiet," said Richard Garcia, who taught Leija shop. Leija was last home in the fall, before his third trip to war. "He said someone has to protect the innocent people over there," his brother Robert said. "He always put people before him." He also is survived by his parents, Mingo and Manuela Leija

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Hector Leija's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 12, 2025

Dylan posted to the memorial.

January 24, 2021

Jennifer's to Garza posted to the memorial.

November 11, 2020

Julia Ramirez posted to the memorial.

Dylan

January 12, 2025

Recently, I purchased a CDU uniform from a surplus store. How it ended up in Canada, I don't know, but afterward, I decided to research the name, and then I found out about Sgt. Hector Leija. I read about his story; though I never knew him, he seemed like a truly good guy. My condolences to his family; may he rest in peace.

Jennifer's to Garza

January 24, 2021

I Remember You Today As I Do Everyday..

I will forever hold you in my heart until we meet again. You will always be the bravest man I ever had the pleasure of knowing. Watch over your loved ones especially on a day like this

Julia Ramirez

November 11, 2020

Happy veterans day cousin . Honored and missed . Continue to rest in peace and love

Charlie Gili

October 13, 2016

Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Leija Family and friends know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this week and we'll be dedicating several of these to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and the hometown of Hector Leija US Army Staff Sergeant. We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

Charmaine Stroud

May 24, 2013

Eternally grateful.

Gladys

April 24, 2013

My memories of you are as clear as day. I'll never forget you.

Gladys

April 24, 2013

It's been several years since you left but my memory of you is as clear as day. I'll never forget you.

Peggy Childers

January 25, 2013

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija:
It has truly been my honor to sign Hector's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Hector will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy

Peggy Childers

January 24, 2012

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija:
Always remembering Hector. "Some gave all."

Peggy Childers

January 24, 2011

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija:
Please accept my remembrance of Hector on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Joe Addison

February 9, 2010

Thinking of Hector today and how we always would chat outside the chews about going to workout in the gym. You always had a great outlook with a huge smile. We all miss you brother.

Peggy Childers

January 24, 2010

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija:
Remembering Hector on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Adam McCrary

January 20, 2010

I served in Afghanistan as a security force team leader. I recently obtained a hero braclet from www.herobraclets.org. Hector's name will be worn on my wrist and those around me will know his name. His name will live on, even in those who didn't know him.

Denna Boehm

July 27, 2009

To the family of Hector Leija. My son was in SSG Leija's unit. He was truly loved by my son and therefore, loved by us. He will always been in my heart and prayers.

Ninfa Leija Ramirez Conde

June 18, 2009

So, cousin we had a birthday party for my mom Julia, Mona and Maria were at my house. We were looking at old pictures and out pops this picture of this little boy, with his hair sticking up and it was you, cute little boy, you were probably in kinder or preschool. I keep a picture of you and me at my work, I was probably 12 and you were a few months old. I look at that picture every day and remember when I used to carry you around, I didn't see after we moved to California but that's ok cause I remember you like it was yesterday. Well, just wanted to tell that.

Gladys

March 6, 2009

It has been two years since I learned of what happened. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I still can't believe it. It's indescribable. You remain in my heart. May God bless your soul, Hector. You were an amazing person.

In Memory of Hector ~ (Debra Estep)

February 6, 2009

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Hector, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

Peggy Childers

January 24, 2009

To the family of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija:
Hector gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Jonathan Lopez

September 25, 2008

I just found out about this recently and I cant believe it. Leija was the greatest guy I ever met. I can remember having fun with you as it was only yesterday... I will miss you
C rock 1/18th Inf

June 18, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Leija!

Jo Marie Solis

October 23, 2007

Hector,
What can I say? Ram tells me that if you were here you would love me and Elijah I hope that's true. Just know I love your family like my own now and only hope that the birth of mine and Ram's daughter can bring a stroke of happiness amongst all the sadness. I wish I could have met you but like I've said before I feel like I have through your bros and family. I love you and hope you are watching over us.

Your sis-in-law,

Marie

August 21, 2007

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

August 7, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Leija and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Raphael Biglefthand

June 25, 2007

Rest in peace buddy....had some good times in germany
Big,

(A co 1-18, schwienfurt)

CPT Jeremy L. St. Laurent

June 4, 2007

I had the pleasure of being SSG Leija's Platoon Leader when he and I were assigned to C Co. 1/18 IN. He was the "man"! Anything that you asked him to do, he did it - without question- with a smile on his face. He was the heart and soul of my platoon. I will forever remember his smile and joking attitude as my radio man and comedian. I am now a commander and have lost 4 of my own Paratroopers and when I found out that Hector had made the final sacrifice I was shocked, but not surprised. You will forever be remembered in my heart. It was an honor to have worked with you. Thank you! God Speed Hector. Duty First Vanguards!

ROBYN Garside

April 28, 2007

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM

James Carter

February 24, 2007

Thank you for your selfless sacrifice and the sacrifice of your family. As a nation we too often forget to say a simple "thank you". We are proud of you and give you the honor you deserve.

Raymond Balderas

February 19, 2007

Rest in peace friend. We will see each other again one day.

Raymond Balderas
HHC 1/18 IN Schweinfurt Germany 1998-2000

Hiruy Gemechu

February 13, 2007

I do not have the words to express my sadness, you always have been a good soldier and an even better person. The world can not afford to lose someone like you. Thank you for all you have done.

Glen

February 13, 2007

“Soldier”
Written to Honor the Service of Our Fallen Soldiers

Soldiers write history, we pay the price
Many miles distant, you live the life
Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still

We hope and pray that all will find peace
In God, in the flag, in memories of valor
Gone now, our pride and courage you see
“An Army of One” our motto forever

Willing to risk all for love of our Brothers
We’re still Your Soldiers…and we showed the way
Our Lives too short, now pray for the others
Lived free died Heroes in lands far away

Deep within souls all cherished our Service
We’ll always have what some never know
Courage and Honor, our names forever
Lived life with purpose…just our time to go

We march in the Heavens with Honor and Glory
Missions accomplished we fought the Good Fight
Many years from now…we’ll tell the full story
Until that Day we will live in the Light

Our lives we laid down in a land far away
Still watching o’er you this night and by day
No need to talk…just know we are with you
There in your hearts and we hear what you pray

Yes we are your soldiers
Our lives we laid down
Still We guard o’er you
Still Duty bound

Entered the Battle of our own free will
Out of Duty for Country, and we’d do it still
We’ll always have what some never know
Lived life with purpose…it was our time to go

Trudy Lowe

February 13, 2007

My heartfelt sympathies to your family. My heart breaks with each new name added to this list, and I am saddened by your loss. Know that you are surrounded by prayers, grace and the deep gratitude of all who live in freedom. My God hold you in his arms and grant you peace. Please find joy in the memories of your loved one and comfort knowing so many are holding you in their hearts.

Diana Tagle Guerrero

February 8, 2007

To my cousin's family and my Aunt Manuela Tagle Leija,
May God hold you ever so gently in His arms during a most difficult time. Always remember that we are here for all of you, Tagle family. I strongly believe that it is "family" from which we energize our souls here on earth to keep on. As for his brother, I read your heartfelt message, let us all embrace what Hector stood for and continue in his path of goodness.
Love your cousin,

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

February 6, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Leija family in the loss of Hector. I did not know Hector, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Hector you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

Krissy Lopez

February 6, 2007

The loss of any American soldier in war is always sad, but when it finally hits your hometown, one truly understands how real it is. The loss of Staff Sergeant Hector Leija has devastated his family, but if you attended his viewing, rosary and funeral, it is quite evident that this loss has changed Raymondville and Willacy County forever.
I am a teacher at RHS and am extremely proud of the students who participated in the "human chain" that followed Sgt. Leija's procession by the high school. Almost 700 students stood side by side in silence as his hearse quietly drove by his former school. This event has moved us all. Unfortunately it took something so tragic to unite us.
Thank you Staff Sergeant Leija: You made a difference. And isn't that what we should all ask ourselves at the end of this journey called life?

Robert Leija

February 6, 2007

I am Robert{bob} the little brother.To every one thats helped me and my famly I thank everyone.My bro was a good man he was always there when u needed help, he never sad no even if he couldent.If yall would like to call my number is {956-746-7208}. I would like to get some pic of hector if anyone has any. I WELL NEVER FORGET U BROTHER. A BROTHERS LOVE CAN NEVER BE FORGOTEN IT JUST GETS STRONGER EVER DAY!

JOHN CASTILLO

February 6, 2007

As a fellow Soldier and Texan, I offer my condolences to the family of Staff Sergeant Hector Leija. To my Brother in Arms, You are gone but not forgotten, Hooah!
Respectfully,

SFC John Castillo
U.S. Army

JESSE FLORES

February 5, 2007

GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND ANYTHING YOU NEED JUST

JESSE FLORES
RODRIQUEZ DODGE

Richard Miller

February 5, 2007

God Bless, I just read the story about your service on the internet. You men and women are doing the right thing as my dad and uncles did in World War II and so many other wars. This too war will end and our fighting will cease and you will not be forgotten. AMEN

Melinda Zepeda

February 3, 2007

Hector I am sorry I never had the privillage to have met you. I am your cousin from Bay City Texas. My mom and grandmother left to your memorial this morning, I want you know that my heart is hurting for your family and friends and I am very proud of you and all that you did for us Americans. You will be missed and always remembered for what you did, even by those who had never met you. May God be with you.

Bernie & Stacey

February 3, 2007

We are deeply sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you.
God bless the family and friends of Hector Leija. Life ends however, memories live on.

Staff Sgt. Hector Leija, the flag of the United States of America has your blood sewn into the fabric, it shall wave forever in your honor.

"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid, they have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices".
~ PRESIDENT HARRY S. TRUMAN ~

Ramiro Tagle

February 2, 2007

SSgt. Hector Leija, I'm sadden to here of your passing. I'm your cousin that did not know you even existed. Of what I have read about you, I find this young man and soldier was a very honorable, respectable to God, Family, Country and fellow soldiers. I feel honored and robbed. I'm sorry we never met. Vietman Vet. and Tu Primo(your cousin).

Martin Bustamante

February 2, 2007

Hector, you will be greatly missed Bro. Thanks for all the memories in Germany. We love you and will miss you very much. Your brothers in C CO. 1-18 IN, United States Army.

Gary Allain

February 2, 2007

Staff Sgt. Hector Leija
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

Dennis & Pam Robertson

February 2, 2007

We are saddened to hear of the loss of yet another young soldier, a hero. May God embrace you and comfort you as only He can. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Uncle & Aunt of Lance Cpl James R. Davenport KIA 11/22/06

Duane Fillmore, CPL USMC

February 2, 2007

Semper Fidelis

Chesty8

February 1, 2007

god bless you and your family for the greatest sacrifice a soldier can make. rest in peace.

Edie Quiroga

February 1, 2007

Coming from the Valley we all are going to miss you very much. My older cousin had gone with you and bob to washington and just wish your family the best of everything. may you rest in peace and god bless

chad white

February 1, 2007

You will be missed deeply my friend and my you rest in peace. My sympathy also to your family.

Amy Mann

January 31, 2007

I sat at your memorial today at Ft. Lewis listening to all the wonderful things being said about you and thanking god that I was fortunate enough to have met you. You are a wonderful soldier, friend and most important, a wonderful man. God bless you. Fly with the rest of the angels for you are now one.

CJ

January 31, 2007

My Heart and Prayers go out to the Family and Friends of Hector.
Remember his smile, laugh and the great times you shared.
May those memories help ease your pain.

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is to never die"
Robert Orr

The price your loved one paid for me will not be forgotten.

Juan & Maria Zaragoza & Family

January 31, 2007

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Greg Short

January 31, 2007

I would like to express my personal condolences and give you my heart felt prayer of peace,and comfort for the loss of my SSGT,friend,and brother in arms may he be forever remember by his life and the things he did for you and the families. I know he had to be a good son to the family. To me he was a mentor,a backbone that kept me straight in and out of Iraq. He made serving in the military the beginning and now a long term good memory. On be half of me and the soilder we thank God for him being born and raised the way he was .Thank God for him joining the military. Serving his country is not the point it's being a 1st line voice and a person you could rely on. If you can imaigine all the good things he's done it would stretch from the usa to overseas easily.All you can do is thank God that he was apart of your life cause that's all I can do. It's ok to cry and be sadden cause I can't stop crying....To Leija I want you to know you 1/23 B-co family needs you spirt to watch over us still like you do. cause without you we are not the team we were. I wish I was by yourside. See you in heaven Hector" and family if you need anything remember anyone from B-co 1/23 is here always now and forever...........he would do this for us in a sec..

Ron Boudrot

January 31, 2007

My deepest sympathy for the Family of Hector Leija. My son Jake served in 1-23 Regiment B Company with him and speaks very highly of SSgt. Leija. He will not be forgotten.

Pat L

January 30, 2007

Leija Family, Friends & Comrades: I am so very sorry abaout the loss of your precious loved one. America has lost a son, but he will always be a hero. I pray that you all will be strengthened daily & find comfort in memories you have of Hector. I honor him. God bless you all.

Jordan Kaufman

January 30, 2007

Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. We will be always grateful for the sacrifice that your soldier made. God bless you and your family with comfort and peace. We will not forget.

phillip calkins

January 30, 2007

Rest in peace Hector. We will see each other again one day. Cal

Dillon Hess

January 29, 2007

To the family of SSG Leija,
I didn't know SSG Leija, but I want you to know he was a real hero. This may be no consolation, but it is the truth. Men and women who die defending our freedom are rare, and their bravery will never be forgotten. I know you will always honor his memory.

Deepest Regards,
Corporal Dillon Hess

Lee Sirotnak

January 28, 2007

Please accept our heartfelt sympathy for your loss. We will be always grateful for the sacrifice that your soldier made. God bless you and your family with comfort and peace. We will not forget.

January 28, 2007

To the Family Of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija,

I am so sorry to hear of Hector's death. He was doing a great service for his country. We deeply appreciate the sacrifice that he and your family have made.

I wrote him a couple times through the Adopt-A-Platoon organization and I am again very sorry for your loss.

Carol Connolly, Norridge, Illinois

January 27, 2007

To the Family of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

Karen Hickman

January 26, 2007

On behalf of "Gold Star Siblings" please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Ninfa Conde

January 26, 2007

Rest In Peace my cousin

Love you always

Your cousin Ninfa Conde
Tulare, CA

Bobbie Compton

January 26, 2007

Pride and gratitude for this young hero's sacrifice will remain in my heart forever. My deepest sympathy to family and friends.

Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)

January 26, 2007

As another son of Texas walked through the opened gates of heaven another family,friends and camrades are filled with grieving pain and sorrow.

Lilly Salinas

January 26, 2007

Ay Heton, como te nos fuiste...Que Dios te tenga en su Gloria. Gracias por todo. Estoy muy triste que no te vamos a tener entre nosotros tu ya estas en un mejor lugar. Dale a mi mami y hermanos un fuerte abrazo
departe de mi. Y cuando mire a mi tio y tia yo les voy a dar mi amor y muchos abrazos. Tu prima
Lilly Salinas

Garnet Jenkins

January 26, 2007

My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of Staff Sgt. Hector Leija, with a multitude of Thanks for his Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.

The price Hector and his family have paid, Will Never Be Forgotten.
May he Rest Safely, in God's Care and may God's Loving Peace and Comfort be with the Leija family.
I am the Sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago

"Surely He hath borne our grief,
and carried our sorrows."
Isaiah 53:4

May you find comfort and strength, in the beautiful memories of times spent with Hector.
Quietly and gently, may healing come, with each new day.
You are in my thoughts and my prayers.

SHIRLEY DONEY

January 25, 2007

REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND YOU HAVE EARNED YOUR WINGS IN HEAVEN, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS HOLD CLOSE TO YOUR HEART ALL THE MEMORIES MAY THEY BRING YOU COMFORT IN THE MONTHS TO COME.

tracy royster

January 25, 2007

may you rest in peace. GOD bless your family.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Hector Leija's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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January 12, 2025

Dylan posted to the memorial.

January 24, 2021

Jennifer's to Garza posted to the memorial.

November 11, 2020

Julia Ramirez posted to the memorial.