Too often we hear phrases such as “only the good die young” or “taken too soon” but rarely do we think we will be in a position to say this about someone we know, yet here we are. This article is dedicated to a beautiful Marine veteran who was taken too soon but deserves to be known by those who didn’t get a chance to know her. Jules this one is for you….
Jules Gatica, born at 0845 on September 21st, 1992, in San Antonio, TX was a proud Marine Corps veteran, pillar of the veteran community, non-profit worker through Heroes Sports, prior bartender at the VFW in Helotes, avid hunter, huge Cowboys fan, friend, daughter, sister, and animal lover.
Following her childhood dream, after graduating from Lee High School, she enlisted in the Marine Corps as 0431 embarkation specialist. Gatica was very successful in her time during her active duty, moving up in rank and making friends all over the world. She worked as an overseas contractor in Kuwait but she missed home. Once Jules returned home, she realized she missed her fellow brothers and sisters in arms.
Jules created a new circle of brothers and sisters composed of several veterans here in San Antonio. She found welcoming arms at her favorite spots around the city, including multiple VFW posts, Thirsty Horse Saloon, Heroes Sports non-profit foundation, the homes of her friends and family as well as local veteran group SATMAR (San Antonio Texas Marines). She enjoyed attending Spurs games & Missions games with friends as well as time at the gym and pamper sessions. Gatica was known for being selfless and kind, going as far as to drive clear across town at all hours of the day to help friends in need.
On the evening of November 2nd, 2023, a tragic car accident took the life of Jules Gatica. We lost an amazing soul. Dozens of family and friends took to social media and honored her in ways that we all knew her; hilarious, joyful, sassy, loving and kind. She was like a sister to many and will be missed dearly.
Jules. Your smile lit up every room you walked into. You made friends everywhere you went with your infectious energy and love for life. Nothing scared you and you knew life was meant to be enjoyed. Your witty humor and sarcasm is how we reminisce since we lost you. You will forever be young and forever in our hearts. Love you always.