Jessie (Johnny) Gongora

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Musician and Chef Jessie "Johnny" Gongora, Jr.
September 25, 1984 - December 4, 2021

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Musician and Chef Jessie “Johnny” Gongora, Jr.’s love of life didn’t come to an end with his death. Jessie passed away on December 4, 2021 at the young age of 37, surrounded by loved ones who will continue his legacy by living their lives to the fullest.

Jessie was born to Rebecca Harris and Jessie Gongora Sr. on September 25, 1984 in Temple, Texas. After graduating from high school, where he played the French horn in the marching band, Jessie went to Texas Tech for two years where he continued to play in their marching band. He then decided to chase his culinary dream at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts program in San Francisco, graduating in 2006.

Jessie loved spending time in the kitchen creating delicious meals for his family and friends. Everyone would gather around the table while he cracked jokes that had a tendency to be inappropriate. He was also a skilled guitar and drum player, and filled his home with many types of music. Most evenings were spent writing songs for his band.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Jessie. He enjoyed an evening around the campfire with friends, guitar in hand. He had an uncanny ability to find happiness in his daily activities. His loving personality was contagious to everyone he met.

Jessie is preceded in death by his grandpa, Clinton Dubey; grandma, Iris Dubey; and grandpa, Robert Gongora.

HIS FAMILY
Jessie is survived by his parents, Rebecca Harris and Jessie Gongora; his grandma, Liz Gongora; his sisters, Kim Gongora, Tori Gongora, and Britney Cadena; his brothers, Ty Gongora, and Trey Gongora; nephew, Tyler Gongora; nieces, Adalynn and Elizabeth Montgomery; and many uncles, aunts and cousins.

CELEBRATING HIS LIFE
A celebration of his life is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 14, at the OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd., Waco, TX 76710 – 254-772-5272.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Adult and Teen Challenge of Texas, 3850 S Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, Texas 78264 - Phone: (210) 624-2075

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