Jose C. Montenegro

Jose Montenegro, 82, of Nanuet, New York, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026,surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.Jose lived a life defined by dedication to family, intellectual curiosity, and quiet perseverance.

Jose was born on December 19, 1943, in the Town of Bauan, Province of Batangas, Philippines,to Rodolfo Montenegro and Milagros CorderoManas. He was raised with a deep appreciation for education and hard work—values that guided him throughout his life. He attended Ateneo de Manila High School and University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering.Driven by a desire to broaden his professional horizons, Jose later moved to the United States and earned a master’s degree in marketing from New York University.

It was during his professional career that Jose met the love of his life, Lourdes. The two met while working together at Del Rosario Brothers and went on to share 55 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and adventure. Together, they traveled extensively throughout Asia and Europe, creating a lifetime of cherished memories.

For more than 50 years, Jose built a distinguished career as a pension actuary. He spent over 35 years commuting into New York City while working at Equitable/AXA, where he was respected for his expertise, integrity, and strong work ethic. Even after officially retiring, Jose continued to share his knowledge through consulting work at Guardian Life, a testament to hislifelong commitment to his profession.

Above all else, Jose was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Lourdes Montenegro; his daughters and sonsinlaw, Lisa and Mike Plunkett, and Jana and Didier Arango; and his five adored granddaughters, Monica, Taylor, Isabella,Natalia, and Alexis, who brought him immense joy and pride.

Jose was the eldest brother to his surviving siblings: Rodolfo Montenegro Jr. (Nellie), Jeremiah Montenegro (Maripaz), Myrna Cruz (Mark), Gerardo Manas, Jr (Cecille), Minlu Manas, and Marie Cruz(Edwin).He was predeceased by his brother Jaime Montenegro; his mother, Milagros Manas; his father, Rodolfo Montenegro; and his stepfather, Dr. Gerardo Manas.

A wake will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Michael J.Higgins Funeral Service Inc., 321 South Main Street, New City, NY. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Parish, 36 West Nyack Road, Nanuet, NY.

Flowers may be sent to Michael J. Higgins Funeral Service Inc.In lieu of flowers,the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Jose’s name.

Jose will be remembered for his wisdom,humility, devotion to family, and the steady presence he offered to all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the family he so dearly loved.