Joe Eldridge

Joe Eldridge, 70, of Gonzales, was born June 14, 1955, in South Carolina, passed away on February 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He moved to Gonzales, Texas in 1976, where he helped construct DGI Manufacturing, a place that would shape both his career and his life. It was in Gonzales that Joe was set up on a blind date with Louene Avant, who quickly became the love of his life. They married on July 22, 1978, and shared 47 years of devotion and partnership.

Joe was known far and wide as one of the best welders around, a description he wore with pride because it spoke to the standard he lived by. He believed firmly that “if you do good work people will come back,” and his reputation proved that philosophy to be true time and time again. His craftsmanship, work ethic, and loyalty earned him the respect of everyone who knew him.

Joe is survived by his wife, Louene; his three children, Jarett, Becky, and Katy; and his three grandchildren, Jaelyn Trent‑Eldridge, Peyton Ann Harkey, and Jackson Trent, all of Gonzales. He is also survived by his sisters Faye Goode of South Carolina and Jewell Dobbins of Virginia, and his brother Jeffrey Eldridge of South Carolina, along with numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents J.P. and Leola Eldridge.

The family welcomes friends to pay their respects from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Seydler Hill Funeral Home on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Joe leaves behind a legacy welded together by hard work, loyalty, and love — solid, steady, and built to last. His presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Friends may leave their condolences to the family by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com. Services are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home.