Funeral services have been announced for Samy Guijosa, an 18-year-old Gilbert native whose passing has left family, friends, and the Batesburg-Leesville community in mourning.
Services for Samy Guijosa will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Batesburg. Burial will follow at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Priceville Road Cemetery in Gilbert. Visitation and viewing are scheduled for Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, Historic Batesburg-Leesville Chapel.
Samy passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026. He was born on August 27, 2007, in Lexington County, South Carolina, to Alvaro Guijosa and Lucia Pablo. He recently graduated from Gilbert High School in December 2024 and was an active member of St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Batesburg.
Well known in the Gilbert community, Samy was a familiar and welcoming face at his family’s business, La Mesa Mexican Restaurant, where he worked as both a host and waiter. Customers and friends alike remember him for his bold personality, energetic presence, and unmistakable confidence. Outside of work, Samy enjoyed fishing, fitness, and weightlifting, passions that reflected his active and spirited nature.
Those closest to him describe Samy as lively and outspoken, with a big personality and a rowdy sense of humor. Above all else, he deeply loved his family and friends, sharing a particularly close bond with his mother. His sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew him.
Samy is survived by his parents, Alvaro Guijosa and Lucia Pablo, and his brothers, Ismael Guijosa, Osvaldo Guijosa, and Ronaldo Guijosa.
In a message shared publicly, La Mesa Mexican Restaurant announced a temporary closure while the family grieves, writing: “Family and friends, we will close for a couple days. We have lost our son Samy Guijosa. Keep us in your prayers, and we will keep y’all updated on the funeral services for those who would like to join us. We love you all.”
Samy Guijosa will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his love for his family, and the lasting impression he left on his community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
