Jose Encarnación Mejia-Luna

Jose Encarnación Mejia-Luna, beloved father, grandfather, community member, and friend, passed away on January 23, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with illness. He was born on March 25, 1957, in Jalisco, Mexico, to Ascención Mejía Rodríguez and María Refugio Luna Sánchez.

Jose spent his younger years in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico, growing up among many siblings and surrounded by family, faith, and strong cultural traditions that shaped the man he would become. Those early years remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Known for his warm smile and larger-than-life personality, Jose had a way of filling a room with laughter and making those around him feel welcomed and valued. A proud Hispanic man and devoted Catholic, his faith remained a guiding force throughout his life, especially during his years of illness, which he faced with strength, resilience, and dignity.

In his twenties, Jose came to the United States in search of a better life. He lived in California for many years. In 1984, Jose welcomed his first daughter, Veronica, followed in 1995 by the birth of his twin daughters, Karina and Maria, who completed his family and filled his life with love and purpose.

In 1999 he moved to Challis, Idaho. Challis became his home for the remainder of his life—a place he deeply loved and where he built meaningful connections within the community that meant so much to him.

Jose found his greatest joy in spending time with his daughters and grandchildren, treasuring every moment shared with them. His love for his family was constant, deep, and unconditional.

Jose is survived by his loving daughters, Veronica Mejia and Karina Mejia; his cherished seven grandchildren, who brought him immense joy; and his stepdaughter, Jessica Hernandez, whom he loved as his own. As well as 2 sisters and 1 brother whom he stayed close with.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ascención Mejía Rodríguez and María Refugio Luna Sánchez; his siblings, José Luis Mejía Luna, José de Jesús Mejía, Onésimo Mejía Luna, Antonio Mejía Luna, José Guadalupe Mejía Luna, Felipe Mejía Luna, María Guadalupe Mejía Luna, and María del San Juan Mejía Luna; and his beloved daughter, Maria Mejia, whose passing left a profound and lasting place in his heart. Jose carried her memory with him always, loving her deeply and holding her close in spirit, and now finds peace reunited with her.

Jose’s remains will be laid to rest in Jerome, Idaho, alongside his beloved daughter Maria, a reunion that brings comfort and peace to those who loved them both.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 21, 2026 from 2:00–4:00 PM at Bux’s Place, 321 Main St, Challis, Idaho. This will be a potluck-style gathering, and all who knew and loved Jose are welcome to attend and share memories.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Jose’s memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.