Jess Landeros Perez

The unforgettable, troublemaker, and jokester Jess “Little Stinger” Landeros Perez, 70, of Gilroy, California, passed away on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Jesus Acevedo Perez and Dolores Landeros Perez were blessed by the birth of their first son, Jess, on July 24, 1955, in Gilroy, California. Growing up with three rambunctious brothers and a loving sister, he learned early on how to hold his own; and how to make everyone laugh while doing it. Jess graduated from Gilroy High in 1974, and remained a lifelong resident of the community he cherished.

Jess met the love of his life, Zenida (Ballesteros) Perez, in 1980 and the two were married on February 12, 1983. Together they built a family filled with love, laughter, and countless memories — along with more than a few stories that will be retold for generations.

Jess was a proud truck driver for over 30 years, thanks to his cousin, Pete Alatorre. He found purpose in the open road, driving long hours for those he loved. Jess retired in 2004 from PDM Steel Service Centers Inc. When he wasn’t working, he could be found listening to oldies and taking charge of the grill as Jess "Emeril," while camping in Yosemite, Oregon, KOA, or Casa de Fruta. He enjoyed rib cook-offs with his brother-in-law Phil, and campfire drinks and stories with his wife, sister-in-law Bobbie, and the other Perez family. He never missed an episode of Monday Night RAW or Friday Night SmackDown, and he never passed up a chance to watch A Christmas Story, a Godzilla movie, or American Graffiti. A loyal Raiders fan, he watched every game — win or lose — with the same dedication.

Family was the heart of Jess’ world. He is survived by his loving wife, Zenida Perez; daughters Jessica Flores (Rafael) and Alyssa Perez; mother Dolores Landeros Perez; siblings Gloria Vaca (Ruben), Gabriel Perez (Alisa), Greg Perez; sister‑in‑law Julie Perez; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, great‑nephews, and great‑great nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Jesus Acevedo Perez, and his brother, Russell Perez.

Jess leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and joy that his family will carry forward with pride and tenderness.

A viewing will be held at 11 AM with funeral services at 12noon on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Habing Family Funeral Home, 129 4th St, Gilroy, CA. Interment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, 900 First Street, Gilroy, CA.