Samuel Rosario-Centeno

Samuel, otherwise known as Sammy or Sam, was a loving son, a protective brother, a dedicated husband, a loving father, a thoughtful grandfather, the fun uncle, a gifted pastor and a man of unwavering faith. He was always the brightest soul in the room who knew just how to lift your spirits, inspire you or make you laugh.

Samuel was born to Andres Rosario and Lucia Centeno on November 10, 1957 in Puerto Rico. As a child, he loved to play baseball, basketball and all kinds of games in the yard with his siblings and neighbors.

Growing up, Sammy would find he was very gifted in drawing as well as hobbies such as weight lifting and running. Sammy's true passion however was always playing the congas and bongos. As a percussionist, he toured the Caribbean with talented and skilled musicians and played in many churches. Rhythm runs through Sammy's blood and no one could play the congas like him. He always said he felt so much joy and love within music, he felt it connected him to God. His favorite song, "Queen of my Soul", explains it all: "Music, sweet music You're the queen of my soul".

Samuel would later move to his long time home of Florida, where he would create a life full of family, love, and memories.

In 1990, his beloved daughter Jasmine arrived. Samuel absolutely loved being a father, it was one of his greatest joys.

Later in life, he found his soulmate and fell in love with his beautiful wife Xiomara Diaz at church. He adored his wife and was a devoted husband. Samuel loved being a step father and a grandfather to his grand children who he constantly kept around him. Sammy was always a big kid at heart!

Samuel was like a father to so many. He exuded paternal energy and always unconditionally loved those around him deeply and profoundly.

Samuel was touched by God to speak His words as an incredibly talented and gifted pastor. He taught the word of God to not only those of his multiple congregations over the years, but to his family and friends daily. He testified to the glory of God to anyone with ears that hear and eyes that see. Sammy not only walked with Jesus every single day, but he exuded Christ's spirit. He believed in teaching how simple it is to follow Jesus, to have faith and to believe. He believed the way to anyone's heart was through acts of non-judgment, love, acceptance and forgiveness.

Samuel absolutely adored being a brother to his siblings and an uncle to their children. Family meant everything to him and he never wanted to miss a moment with those he loved.

Samuel joins his mother Lucia Centeno, his father Andres Rosario as well as his siblings Elias Rosario-Centeno and Sara Rosario-Centeno in Heaven.

He is survived by his wife Xiomara Diaz, his daughter Jasmine Rosario, his siblings Milagros Rosario-Centeno, Andres Rosario-Centeno, Ana Rosario-Centeno, Elizabeth Rosario-Centeno, Ruth Rosario-Centeno, Lili Rosario-Centeno, Daniel Rosario-Centeno and Myriam Rosario-Centeno, as well as all of his grand children, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Samuel is going to be missed by so many. His unforgettable laugh and his smile can still be felt.

His legacy, his teachings and his impact will be carried forward within every single one of us touched by his light.

“I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me” - Philippians 4:13