Javier "Javi" Villarreal

Javier Villarreal, known affectionately as "Javi" to his friends and family, passed away on March 3, 2024, at the age of 20. Born on January 7, 2004, in Rock Island, Illinois. Javi was a beacon of light and joy in the lives of all who knew him. His untimely departure has left a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of kindness and courage will forever be cherished.

Javi was the beloved son of Naythan and Ashley (Villarreal) James and brother to Haydin, Annabelle, and Elleyahna James. He will be dearly missed by his best friend, Aden Farrell, and his beautiful girlfriend, Lizzie Aguilar, along with her precious baby Julianna, whom he loved deeply. He is survived by his paternal father, Jose Torres, Jr., and eleven Torres siblings, with whom he held a special bond, especially twins Jordan and Christian Torres. He was the adored grandson of Christine and Eduardo Villarreal, as well as Lori and Rick Reynolds. His extended family included his aunts and uncles, Amanda, Eddie, Lisa, Jeremy, Amy, and Justin, and their families, along with a very special cousin, Courtney Villarreal, all of who will remember him fondly for his thoughtful nature and his ability to light up a room. Javi was preceded in death by his grandfather Jeff "Pops" James, James Houk, great grandmothers June Grindley and Madelyn Frederickson, great grandparents Peggy and Bill Walker, Sherrill James and Jean James, along with a cousin, Christina Moreland.

Javi's educational journey culminated in graduating from Penn Foster in 2022, following Rock Island High School. His employment path led him to Bellota Agrisolutions in Rock Island, where he worked as a machinist.

Outside of work, Javi's passions were numerous and varied. He was an avid sports enthusiast with a love for baseball that transcended the game. As a dedicated baseball coach for the Milan/Rock Island Little League, he inspired young athletes with his passion and knowledge of the sport. His love for the outdoors was evident in his enjoyment of fishing, golfing, and frisbee golf. Javi cherished the simple pleasure of hanging out with his friends and held a particularly close relationship with his brother, Haydin, with whom he shared countless memorable moments.

Courageous, kind, and thoughtful—these words encapsulate the essence of Javi Villarreal. He approached every challenge with bravery and every person with a warm heart. His thoughtfulness extended beyond his immediate circle, touching the lives of everyone he encountered.

A funeral service to honor the life of Javi will be held on Wednesday, March 13, at 10:30 AM at Wendt Funeral Home in Moline. Family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Javi are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, March 12, from 4 PM to 7 PM, also at Wendt Funeral Home. Following the service, Javi will be laid to rest in Rock Island Memorial Park, where he will be remembered for his enduring spirit and the love he shared with all.

Memorials may be made to the family in place of flowers by donating via https://venmo.com/u/Ashley-Villarreal-51 .

As we say farewell to Javier "Javi" Villarreal, we hold onto the memories that he has left behind—a legacy of courage, kindness, and thoughtfulness that will live on in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. May he rest in peace, and may his spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and sign his tribute book on his Memory Page at wendtfuneralhome.com.