Francisco Rovira Guadalupe

Paco was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, stepfather, brother, friend, and respected member of his community whose warmth, humor, wisdom, and kindness touched countless lives. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez. During his time at the university, he proudly participated in ROTC and later briefly served in the Puerto Rico National Guard Ordnance Division. Throughout both his college and professional years, he was also a proud member of Delta Phi Theta Fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships and bonds of brotherhood.

He was a devoted Freemason who proudly served as Grandmaster of Masonic Lodge District 1 in Puerto Rico from 1973 to 1974, reflecting his leadership, dedication, and commitment to his fraternal brothers and community.

Paco had a deep love for the sea and sailing, and he especially cherished spending time with family, sharing meals, laughing together, and enjoying life’s simple moments. He also had a special love for animals, especially cats, who were always drawn to his gentle spirit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francisco Rovira Vázquez and Primitiva “Carmen” Guadalupe Hernández, as well as his stepson, José Cotto Fernández.

He is survived by his loving wife, María Fernández Morales; his siblings, José Rovira, Francisco Rovira Jr., and Norma Rovira; his children Jorge Rovira and spouse Susana Matos of San Juan, Puerto Rico, along with their son Gabriel; Carmen Rovira of San Antonio, Texas; Nelly Rovira and spouse Samuel Oquendo of San Antonio, Texas, along with their children Anthony and Tatiana; Charlie Rovira of Isabela, Puerto Rico, along with his son Koi Ryder; and Adelyn Michelle Irlanda and spouse Julio Miguel Irlanda of Riverview, Florida, along with their children Piero Miguel and Ia Mercé.

He is also survived by his beloved stepchildren Carol Cotto Fernández of Lakeland, Florida; Keila Rodríguez Fernández of Lakeland, Florida; and Vanessa Cotto of Winter Haven, Florida.

He additionally leaves behind his step-grandchildren Jonathan Cotto and spouse Sheraine of Bridgeport, Connecticut, along with their son Kylo; Joshua Cotto and spouse Jasmine of Suffolk, Virginia, along with their children Tahj Coleman, Mia Coleman, Jade Cotto, Journi Cotto, Jiselle-Rae Cotto, and Joshua Cotto Jr.; and Jovanté Antonio Cotto of Providence, Rhode Island.

Paco will be remembered for his calm presence, generosity, humor, love for family, and the joy he brought to those around him. Though deeply missed, his memory and legacy will continue living through the many lives he touched.

A celebration of life is being held Wednesday, May 20 from 5 PM to 7 PM at Wells Memorial & Event Center, 1903 W Reynolds St, Plant City, FL 33563.