Juan Tristan "Johnny" Sierra

1944 - 2025

Juan Tristan Sierra (Johnny), 81, of San Marcos, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the loved ones he so deeply cherished.

Born on October 29, 1944, in Kyle, Texas, Juan was the son of the late Jose Angel Sierra Sr. and Juanita Tristan Sierra. Raised on the ranch where his family lived and worked, Juan developed a strong work ethic early in life. At just five years old, he helped his parents pick cotton-lessons in endurance and responsibility that shaped the man he would become. He attended school in San Marcos, Texas, first at James Bowie Elementary and later at San Marcos High School, where he continued building the foundation of the hardworking man he grew to be. He eventually married the love of his life, Irene Rangel, on February 22, 1963.

Juan worked with unwavering dedication throughout his life. He spent many years as a truck driver, hauling cattle across the United States, before pursuing his entrepreneurial spirit by establishing Sierra's Drywall and later Sierra's Hauling. Everything he did, he did to provide for his family. Despite long hours and demanding work, Juan was known for his generosity and willingness to help others. Service was simply part of who he was.

A beloved tradition in his life was the St. John's Catholic Church Fiesta, where he proudly led the hamburger booth each year. His yearly call-"Ready to make some burgers?"-brought his family together and became a cherished part of his legacy.

When he wasn't working or giving back, Juan enjoyed the simple joys that brought him peace. He loved tending to his lawn and caring for his plants, and he could often be found working on his puzzles with patience and focus. He enjoyed taking daily walks through his neighborhood, greeting everyone he passed. One of his greatest joys was gathering his family together for the holidays under the roof he helped build - nothing made him happier than having his loved ones close. He also loved traveling to Louisiana to visit his favorite casino, Coushatta. He often picked up his brother Chico along the way, turning each trip into a memorable brother road trip. Juan had quite the luck, too - he always knew which slots would pay and which wouldn't. If you ever accompanied him, you'd see him get into his zone, and if you were lucky, he might have even spread some of his luck onto you.

Juan will be remembered for his humor, warmth, and the unforgettable jokes that carried through every phase of his life, even in his final days. His ability to make others laugh, feel welcomed, and feel loved was a gift he shared freely. Juan's legacy of faith, hard work, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Frank, Gilbert, Arturo, Margarito (Mayo), and Jose Sierra.

Juan is survived by his devoted wife, Irene, and their four children: Melba Romero (Carlos), Johnny Sierra Jr. (Georgia), Lucinda Gaitan (Alvin), and Donny Sierra. He is also survived by his grandchildren: CJ Romero, Curtis Romero, Cyrus Romero (Yuliana), Johnny Sierra III, Christa Sierra, Austin Sierra (Gracie), Jarred Sierra, Melody Gaitan, Marriah Gaitan, and Alvin Gaitan Jr. He is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren, as well as his siblings Narcisco "Chico," Jose Angel "Joe," David, and Lupe Hernandez.

Viewing will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Thomason Funeral Home beginning at 4:00 p.m., with the Rosary at 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John's Evangelist Catholic Church, followed by burial at Memory Lawn Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Johnny Sierra Jr., Austin Sierra, Jarred Sierra, Arthur Sierra, Tony Sierra, Ruben Sierra, and Alvin Gaitan Jr.

The Sierra family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered support and prayers during this time. October 29, 1944 - December 8, 2025