Eraclio M. Leon

Eraclio “Eric” M. Leon died at 56 years old on August 20, 2026 in his home. He was born on November 6, 1969 in Chicago, Illinois & was raised in San Jose De La Paz, Jalisco and Atlanta, Georgia by his parents, Gregorio Leon & Magdalena Macias.

Eraclio Leon co-founded the restaurants, San Jose, alongside his father in the 1980s & later expanded in Columbia, SC alongside his family. He was a hardworking man of unwavering faith who loved connecting with people and sharing his joy in trusting God through every season of life. He loved spending time with his family, going on trips, going to the movies, and attending soccer games & USC games. Eraclio was a man who dedicated himself to his work and his family. He gave so much of himself to others, leaving an impact on everyone fortunate enough to know and love him.

In addition to his mother, Eraclio is survived by his wife, Guillermina Leon and their seven children: Magdalena Leon, Eric Leon, Leasette Leon, Carla Leon, Karina Leon, Daniel Leon & Andres Leon. As well as his two grandchildren: Alexander Galvan & Isabel Galvan. Eraclio is also survived by his nine siblings: Antonio Leon, Dolores Leon, Ramona Leon, Jose Leon, Jimena Rodriguez, Susana Ortega, Valentin Leon, Cecilia Leon, and Meshell Leon. Now he is in eternal rest reunited with those who went before him: his beloved father, Gregorio León; his brother, Greg “Goyo” León; his father-in-law, Aurelio Ayala; and his brother-in-law, Aurelio “Guello” Ayala.

A visitation for Eraclio Leon will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Thompson Funeral Home located at 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM at St. John Newman Catholic Church located at 100 Polo Road, Columbia, SC 29223. The burial will proceed after mass at Greenlawn Memorial Park located at 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209.