Juan Leon Laureles, known to his family as Leon, was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. His life was marked by selflessness and kindness, even in the face of personal challenges. As the youngest of nine children, Leon took on the responsibility of caring for his ailing parents from a young age at their home in Brady. By the time he was 14, he held a driver’s permit and diligently drove them to appointments, picked up their medications, and managed the household. Despite the weight of this responsibility, he never complained. It was simply something he accepted as his duty. Growing up, Leon shared a close bond with his niece, Arlene Harbison, who was nearly three years younger than him. They were more like siblings than aunt and niece, playing together in the high school band and dancing the night away at local dance halls. Leon’s taste in music leaned toward pop, and his favorite artist was Madonna. At the time of his tragic death, his favorite song was “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion, a poignant choice that would later be played at his funeral. Leon’s kindness extended beyond his family. He moved to San Angelo to assist Arlene with her firstborn child and later relocated to Brownwood, where he continued to support his family. During the day, he cared for Arlene’s sons, and at night, he worked at the Kroger grocery store. His coworkers knew him as a gentle giant who stepped in whenever someone needed help. Leon’s generosity even extended to birthday presents for his colleagues. The news of Leon’s death shattered Arlene’s world. On that fateful day, around 2:30 a.m. on May 10, 1996, her cousin called with heartbreaking news: “Someone killed Leon.” The weather matched her grief—a gray, rainy day that felt like “God’s tears” because Leon was such a good person. Speculation surrounds the circumstances of Leon’s death. Some believe that being gay in 1996 West Texas may have made him vulnerable, while others think he witnessed something he shouldn’t have. Regardless, one truth remains: his death was no accident. As the 25th anniversary passes, Leon’s family continues to seek answers, hoping that someone with crucial information will come forward. Leon Laureles, a caring uncle, devoted friend, and Madonna fan, left an indelible mark on those who knew him. His memory lives on, and the fight for justice persists. Someone out there holds the key to unraveling the mystery of what happened to Juan Leon Laureles, and perhaps someday, the truth will prevailBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-miles-missing-unsolved--5942583/support.
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