Rafael Figueroa

Rafael Jose "Fig" Figueroa Rodriguez September 28, 1974 – February 23, 2025 Rafael Jose Figueroa Rodriguez, 50, a true American hero and a leader among men, passed away on February 23, 2025, in hospice care in Columbus, Georgia, succumbing to cancer with his devoted wife, Jackie Barentine Pike (Figueroa Rodriguez), at his side.

A Celebration of life will be held from 11:00AM to 12:00PM Tuesday, March 4, 2025 in the St. Elmo Room of Striffler Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. Burial will be held at 2:30 PM March 4, 2025 at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery with Military Honors.

Born on September 28, 1974, in Arroyo, Puerto Rico, Rafael lived a life defined by courage, honor, and an unshakable dedication to his country, faith, and family. Rafael was preceded in death by his father, Jesus Maria Figueroa of Vieques, Puerto Rico, and his sister, Luz Mercedes Figueroa. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jackie—his partner through every storm and triumph—and his mother, Rose Rodriguez Figueroa of Guayama, Puerto Rico. His legacy lives on in his children: Gabriela Figueroa, Damien Cox, Ethan Cox, and Conner Haney “the OG”, and his adored grandson, Walker Cox. He also leaves behind his siblings: Rosa M. Figueroa Rodriguez (Jose Torres), Teressa R. Figueroa Rodriguez (Eugenio R. Lomba Rodriguez), Patricia M. Figueroa, and Mabel R. Figueroa.

Rafael was a combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, serving in the United States Army as an infantryman (11B) with unparalleled dedication. Known to his brothers-in-arms as “Fig,” he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant, earning numerous commendations for his valor and leadership during multiple deployments. Whether in the heat of battle or the quiet moments of mentorship, Rafael stood as a leader among men, his service a testament to his unwavering resolve and the camaraderie he inspired. After hanging up his uniform, Rafael channeled his discipline and determination into a remarkable civilian career. He became a highly successful restaurant manager, sought after nationwide for his uncanny ability to revive struggling establishments. With a keen eye for detail and a heart for his teams, he transformed fledgling restaurants into profitable, well-run successes, leaving a trail of thriving businesses in his wake.

Rafael’s passions painted a vivid picture of the man he was. He loved the sharp focus of the gun range, the calm of poolside afternoons with his dogs, and the soulful melodies of his favorite songs: “Waymaker” by Leeland, “Someone” by Aaron Lewis, and “I Speak Jesus” by Charity Gayle. A lifelong Star Wars devotee, Rafael saw his bond with Jackie—his “Fattyboo”—reflected in the galaxy’s great pairings: he was her Han to Leia, Obi-Wan to Satine, and Anakin to Padmé, forever linked by love and loyalty. He cherished his dogs, his guns, his faith in Jesus, and above all, his family—especially “the OG,” Conner, whom he delighted in spoiling. In his final hours, Rafael received the Catholic Sacrament of Last Rites from Father Odel Medina, a sacred moment that affirmed his deep faith. As Psalm 4:8 declares, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety”—words that echo the serenity Rafael found in his trust in God as he faced cancer with the same bravery he carried into battle.

Rafael Jose Figueroa Rodriguez will be remembered as a patriot who served his nation in war and peace, a husband whose love was a force unto itself, and a father and grandfather whose pride in his family knew no bounds. His family invites friends to join in celebrating his extraordinary life—details of a memorial service will follow. In Jackie’s words, Rafael was “our Force—always and forever.” He was a towering strength throughout his fight with cancer, always looking out for her and Conner with the same fierce devotion he showed in every part of his life. May he rest in eternal peace, his duty done, his legacy secure.