Jose Leon Jr.

Jose “Lalo” Gerardo León Miranda, 46, of Chicago Heights, IL passed away suddenly on July 27th, 2026. Lalo was born on February 1st, 1980 in La Piedad de Cabadas, Michoacán, Mexico to Josefina (Miranda) León and Jose León.

Lalo is remembered as a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend.

Lalo spent his earliest years surrounded by extended family in La Piedad. At age 9, he moved with his family to Chicago Heights, where he graduated from Bloom High School. He thrived at school as an honors student and member of the soccer team.

Lalo’s mother was his best friend and he found great comfort in her company and her home-cooked Mexican dishes. Lalo had a vibrant soul and enjoyed livening up the dance floor with his breakdancing at family quinceañeras and bailes. He was also an avid music listener, particularly passionate about hip hop and rap. Growing up, he spent time with his sister Carolina slowing down cassette tapes to write down and memorize the lyrics together.

As a Chicago Bulls fan, Lalo collected basketball cards and loved playing basketball with friends and neighbors at his local park. At home, he was often playing video games, sharing a love of Zelda with his sister Melba. Lalo often gravitated to Chicago’s lakefront, finding peace in spending time by the water.

Lalo’s memory lives on with his parents; Josefina (Miranda) León and Jose León, his sisters; Carolina (León) Solis, Melba León, and Elizabeth (León) Barboza, his brother Jesse León, brothers-in-law; Oscar Solis and Edgar Barboza, and his nieces and nephews.

Lalo’s Visitation and Services will be held on August 8th, 2026 from 2pm until the time of Service at 6pm at Tews - Ryan Funeral Home located at 18230 Dixie Hwy, Homewood, IL. For additional information contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300.