Jose Antonio Neira

Jose Antonio Neira passed away peacefully at his home in Boise on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. He was born August 15, 1942, in Silleda, Pontevedra, Spain, to Jesus Neira and Carmen Taboada.

At age 15 Jose took a solo ship ride to Cuba to help his aunt and uncle with their coal business until Castro came into power and they lost their business. He returned to his home in Pontevedra for a short time before deciding to move to San Sebastian where he lived for a few years. During this time in the Basque Country, he made the life changing decision to move to the U.S. with a contract to herd sheep. In 1971, he arrived in Shelley, Idaho and continued herding sheep throughout the state for 5 years. In March of 1976, he received his green card and returned to Spain to visit family. He met the love of his life, Maria Dolores Negreira, and married her 4 months later on November 6, 1976, in Santa Comba, La Coruña, Spain. Three months after their wedding, Jose had to return to the U.S. and had to leave his bride behind as she was expecting their first child. After 14 long months apart, Maria was able to join Jose in Boise, Idaho, with their 7-month-old daughter, Alicia. Two and a half years later they welcomed their second daughter, Melisa, and 3 years later their family was complete with the birth of their son, Jose Jr.

Jose spent his lifelong career in construction and was loved by all for his strong work ethic and commitment to the projects he worked on. He was known as “Joey” to many. At age 70 he retired and began his most treasured role of all as “nanny” to his grandchildren, even assisting with potty training. Who would have thought!! He earned the title “Awito” by his beloved grandchildren when Abuelito (grandpa in Spanish) was too hard to pronounce.

Jose had many hobbies, but nothing was more important than spending time with his family. He loved tending to his garden, especially his peppers, fishing and hunting. He enjoyed playing cards and would never turn down an opportunity to go to Jackpot. He also loved watching tennis and soccer on TV and never wanted to miss watching his grandchildren play sports.

Jose is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Maria; his daughter, Alicia Neira Catt, her husband, Paul, and their children, Sarah & Aliyah; his daughter, Melisa Neira Westerberg, her husband, Taylor, and their children, Hudson & Hayes; and his son, Jose Jr Neira.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters, and nephew, Felipe.

The Neira Family would like to thank Harrison’s Hope Hospice for caring for Jose. Sandy & Summer, your incredible kindness, dedication, comfort, and support will never be forgotten!

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to a charity of your choice. Thank you!

Jose, “Papa”, “Awito”, we will love you and miss you forever. Your memory will continue to be a light in all of our lives. Descansa en paz.

A public rosary/prayer service for family and friends will be held 7:00 PM Monday, September 28, 2026 at Bowman funeral parlor 10254 W. Carlton Bay Dr., Garden City, Idaho.

A private family mass and committal service at Morris Hill cemetery will be held at a later date..

Services are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor, Garden City. 208-853-3131