Johnny Paniagua's Obituary
Johnny Paniagua Age 60 | January 5, 1965 - December 26, 2025 San Antonio, Texas
Johnny Paniagua, 60, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on December 26, 2025. A larger-than-life soul, Johnny lived boldly and loved deeply, leaving behind a legacy rooted in family, loyalty, and rock-and-roll.
Johnny was the beloved husband of Gloria Paniagua, his partner in life, love, and business. Together, Johnny and Gloria were known by many as “Crackerbox,” a name that became synonymous with their spirit, their community, and the life they built side by side. He was a devoted father to Johnny Paniagua, Jaime Paniagua, and Tiffany Paniagua, and a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Jalyssa Paniagua, Jayden Martinez, Vanity Paniagua, Jaylene Paniagua, Gavin Paniagua, Justene Paniagua, Harley Paniagua, and Peyton Paniagua, as well as a cherished great-grandfather to Jehlani Cephus.
Johnny is survived by his father, George Paniagua Sr., and his siblings George Paniagua, Eloy Herrera, Lee Herrera, Ronnie Paniagua, and Barbie Paniagua. He is reunited in heaven with his beloved mother, Marylou Herrera, whose love remained with him always.
Johnny was known as a true rock-and-roll icon. He loved to party, attend concerts, and live life out loud—but above all, he loved his family and took care of everyone around him. Alongside Gloria, their door and their hearts were always open, and together they created a space where people felt welcomed, protected, and at home.
He was the proud owner of Crackerbox Palace, a head shop that became legendary in the community. Because of it, the name “Crackerbox” followed Johnny and Gloria wherever they went, a symbol of the life, laughter, and connections they shared with so many.
Johnny’s legacy lives on through his family, his music, his generosity, and the countless lives touched by the presence he and Gloria shared. Though he has left this world, he leaves a footprint so deep that it can never be filled, only remembered. His presence will continue to be felt in every song, every memory, and every heart he touched.
Rock on forever, Johnny.
Memorials may be made to Online condolences can be made at https://www.merodriguez.com/. Funeral arrangements were trusted to M. E. Rodriguez Funeral Home, 511 Guadalupe Street San Antonio, TX 78207, (210) 226-6111.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Johnny, please visit our floral store.
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