Jacob Rene Barrera

Jacob was born on July 31, 2023, and in his three short years, he lived life to the fullest and brought joy and energy wherever he went. He loved playing with his monster trucks, superheroes, his toy weight lift set, playing hide-and-seek with his dad and brother, going for walks outside, visiting the playground, and spending time on Grammy and Pa’s deck and in their sandbox.

Jacob leaves behind his loving parents, Carlos and Katie of Haddam; his big brother, Joey; and his baby sister, Alessandra. He is also survived by his great-grandparents, Don and Bernadette of Cocoa Beach, Florida; grandparents Greg and Cathy of Old Saybrook and Rene and Gladys of Clinton; Uncle Jeremy of Clinton; and Uncle Dan “Oakey” and Annmarie “Auntie Ree Ree” Thayer of Rocky Hill. He will also be deeply missed by his great-uncles, great-aunts, cousins, and friends.

Although our hearts are broken beyond words, we find comfort in knowing that Jesus conquered death on the cross. Jacob is now free from pain and suffering, living victorious in Heaven.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Smilow Cancer Center/Yale New Haven Hospital, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and The Proton Center for their expert care and support. We would also like to offer our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Michele DiLorenzo, Dr. Nicholas Condulis, and Dr. Charlayne McStay for their dedication, guidance, and kindness. We will forever be grateful for everyone who cared for and loved Jacob.

A celebration of life will be held at Valley Bible Church in Haddam on Thursday September 3rd at 10:30am. Burial will be private.

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 28th 2026 from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Robinson, Wright & Weymer in Centerbrook.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jacob’s memory to St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, or the Closer to Free Ride.

“Death is swallowed up in victory

O death, where is your victory?

O death, where is your sting?” —1 Corinthians 15:54-55 (ESV)