John C. Moreno

1952 - 2026

John C. Moreno
March 24, 1952 - January 16, 2026
John C. Moreno, lovingly known as "Johnny," passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, at the age of 73, in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by the love of his family.

Johnny was born on March 24, 1952, in San Antonio, Texas, to Patsy C. Moreno and Augustine Moreno. A lifelong resident of San Antonio, he was deeply rooted in his community and family. He graduated from Brackenridge High School in 1971, the same year he began pursuing his dream as a professional boxer.

Boxing was not just a sport to Johnny-it was a lifelong passion and a family tradition. He began boxing at the age of five, and through years of dedication, discipline, and heart, he built an extraordinary career. Johnny was a four-time San Antonio Golden Gloves Champion and a National Golden Gloves Champion in 1971. He concluded his amateur career with an impressive record of 152 fights and only three defeats. From 1970 to 1977, he competed professionally, earning respect and recognition under the ring name "Pelon."
After retiring from boxing in 1977, Johnny made a memorable one-time comeback in 1982. Renowned for his class and skill in the ring, he possessed power in both hands, exceptional footwork, and remarkable speed, making him a formidable and elusive opponent. Through his boxing career, Johnny traveled extensively, competing in places such as Mexico, Honolulu, California, and Louisiana. In recognition of his lasting impact on the sport, he was inducted into the San Antonio Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020 alongside his brother, Tony.

Beyond his accomplishments in the ring, Johnny's greatest pride came from teaching and mentoring others. He lovingly trained his sons in the sport he cherished and went on to coach many young fighters in the community. As a coach, he was known not only for his knowledge and skill, but for his patience, encouragement, and unwavering belief in those he trained. He used boxing to instill discipline, confidence, and resilience-lessons that extended far beyond the gym.

Above all else, John was a devoted family man. Thoughtful, strong, and deeply caring, he lived his life guided by love, loyalty, and faith. His family was the center of his world, and his greatest joy came from time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His faith was a steady foundation throughout his life, shaping the values he passed down and the compassion he showed to others.

John is survived by his loving wife, Mary Moreno, with whom he shared 37 years of marriage. He is also survived by his children: Patsy Moreno, Laurie Moreno, Priscilla Figueroa, Johnny Moreno Jr., Mariah Moreno, and Joshua Moreno; 17 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his siblings: Antonio "Tony" Moreno, Gloria M. Coste, Gilbert Moreno, and Jimmy Moreno.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Augustine Moreno Sr. and Patsy C. Moreno; his siblings Augustine Moreno Jr., Jerry Moreno Sr.; and Robert Aguilar.

John's legacy lives on through his family, the countless lives he touched as a coach and mentor, and the boxing community that will forever remember his dedication, heart, and strength. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Memorial Services will be held at:

Castillo Funeral Home
210-432-8586
520 N. General McMullen Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78228
February 2: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Viewing)
February 3: 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Memorial Service at 6:00 p.m.