Roy Joel Hernandez Mejares

On Friday, September 27, 2019, the world lost a bright light in Roy Joel Mejares, loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Roy Joel passed away suddenly at the tender age of 38. He is preceded in death by his parents and leaves behind his adoring wife, Jennifer Mejares Pham, their beautiful children Joelson (6), Jenson (2) and Joeliana (3 months), as well as many, loved siblings, nephews, nieces, and large extended chosen family too many to name but never too many to love.

Roy Joel was born on December 22, 1980, in Manila, Philippines. The youngest of five sons born to Roger and Luz Mejares. He moved to the United States when he was 8 years old, but it was not until his family moved to California, did Joel make forever friends. It was in his hometown of Murrieta, CA where he met the love of his life, Jen. It was there where he fulfilled his dreams of raising his family. In 1999, upon graduation from Murrieta Valley High School, he received a full scholarship to the University of Hawaii where he played tuba for the band where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government. It was also during his college years that the tragic events of 9/11 took place and so began his desire to defend our great nation.

In 2008, Roy Joel chose to follow in the footsteps of his older brothers and served honorably and valiantly in the United States military. The Army brought him to Fort Lewis, Washington, where he joined the 17th Infantry Regiment family. Never one to brag about his accomplishments, Staff Sergeant Mejares was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, a decoration awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for either heroic achievement, heroic service, meritorious achievement, or service in a combat zone upon his return from a year-long deployment in Afghanistan. Civil and public service has always been a huge part of Roy Joel's life. He obtained his Masters of Science from National University in Cyber Security and Information Assurance and went on to work for the government holding the highest level of security clearance for a civilian. A month before his passing, Roy Joel received a promotion to project manager, doing cybersecurity for the Department of Defense which brought him back to his home away from home, Hawaii, and where he passed away at the top of Koko Crater Railway Trailhead Regional Park achieving one of his life long goals.

Always one to encourage adventures, and share his passion to live life to the fullest, Roy Joel was also the one who could soothe a hurt soul, calm a nervous mind, spark hope, happiness, and joy to those who needed it. Roy Joel was one to always show respect and befriend anyone he came in contact with, whether it was the custodian or a decorated general. He was incredibly thoughtful and would move heaven and earth just to bring smiles to the faces of all those around him. Roy Joel was a charismatic leader who loved everyone and had a profound way of bringing people together. Joel had a great sense of honor and duty to his country. He volunteered in the community and had the biggest heart for kids, through big brother mentorships, volunteering for Camp Wonder, and most recently becoming certified as a foster dad.

Of all the wonderful accomplishments that he has achieved in his lifetime, his proudest accomplishment was becoming a father. To his beautiful and growing family, he was their world. He was the Tooth Fairy, protector of dreams, coach, chef, baby whisperer extraordinaire, monster chaser, grill master, tickle police, bathtime champ, biggest cheerleader, expert gift-giver, leader and their superman.

No one person will ever take his place, but with his legacy, he leaves a village of friends and family who will stop at nothing to make sure his wife and children always have something to look forward to and smile about. Heaven has gained another angel in your passing Roy Joel. We will forever miss you and carry your memory in our hearts. We love you.

A Celebration of Life Reception and viewing will be held at 6-9 pm Friday, October 4, 2019, at Miller-Jones Mortuary Chapel, 26770 Murrieta Road, Sun City, CA 92585.

The family will be receiving guests for viewing, rosary, and vigil service on Saturday, October 6th from 7 pm to 8:30 pm at St. Martha Catholic Church, 37200 Whitewood Road, Murrieta, CA 92563.

Formal Military Honor Gaurd and Memorial Mass will be held at 12:45 pm in his honor on Monday, October 7, 2019, at St. Martha Catholic Church, 37200 Whitewood Road, Murrieta, CA 92563.

Burial will immediately follow at Murrieta Cemetery, 42800 Ivy Street, Murrieta, CA 92562.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please help support Jen and the kids as Joel was the primary source of income for their family.