Juan Jose De Jesus

Juan Jose De Jesús Román, lovingly known as “Cheo,” passed away on June 22, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Guayama, Puerto Rico, he was the son of Santiago De Jesus Otero and Lucía Román Gómez.

A devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, Jose lived a life full of music, laughter, faith, and generosity. He spent most of his career as a skilled dental technician, proudly running his own business, JDJ Dental Lab. His dedication to his craft was matched only by his deep love for people, always offering his time and help to neighbors and anyone in need.

Jose's joy was infectious. He had a radiant smile and a playful sense of humor, often wrapping up his stories with a twinkle in his eye and the words, “It’s not funny, it’s a joke.” He loved to make people laugh and believed in the power of positive thinking, often reminding those around him that the mind is a powerful tool for building the life you want.

A man of unwavering Christian faith, Jose often shared Bible stories and parables with his children, reassuring them they were never alone, God was always with them. He instilled in his family the values of resilience, kindness, and courage, and often encouraged them to speak up for what they needed, saying, “The worst they can say is no.”

He had a deep love for all genres of music, never missing a beat, always in tune with the rhythm of life around him. Music wasn’t just something he listened to; it lived within him. He found immense joy strumming his guitar alongside his brothers and playing for his friends and family, filling every room with sound and connection. He especially loved dancing to the vibrant rhythms of his Puerto Rican roots, most of all with his beloved wife, Gloria De Jesús, who passed away in 2012.

In his leisure time, Jose enjoyed playing golf, dominoes, pool, fishing, crabbing, and an occasional visit to the casino. But more than anything, he cherished time with his family and friends, spreading warmth, wisdom, and laughter wherever he went.

He is survived by his four children: Joe W. De Jesus, Ivette De Jesus, Margarita M. De Jesus, and Lucy Kalantari; the mother of his children, Juana Maria Abreu; and two stepsons, D. Felix Abreu and Jose F. Abreu. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and three beloved siblings: Antonia De Jesús Román, Ángel De Jesús Román, and Reinaldo De Jesús Román.

Jose’s spirit, stories, and smile will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.