Jerome Ray Ronquillo

Jerome Ray Ronquillo, affectionately known as YoJ, was born in Houston, Texas, on July 10, 1969, to Romeo “Romy” and Jesusa “Susie” Valdez Ronquillo. Born to two pioneers of Houston’s Filipino community, Jerome grew up with a deep appreciation for his Filipino heritage and the community that helped shape his family’s roots. He was immensely proud of where he came from and cherished the lifelong friendships and connections he built within this community.

In May 1975, Jerome and his parents welcomed his baby sister, Michelle, whom he proudly named. Their sibling bond was fierce and filled with laughter, love, and a shared appreciation for good food. Jerome was always protective of Michelle and loved her deeply. When Michelle worked as a travel nurse, Jerome loved visiting her in Hawaii and California, living vicariously through her adventures and enjoying every opportunity to spend time together. Their bond was one he treasured throughout his life.

Jerome attended the University of Houston, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio and Television. A proud Cougar and brother of the Sigma Nu Fraternity, he formed some of his closest and most enduring friendships during his college years. It was also through a fraternity event that Jerome’s natural gifts for comedy, charisma, and leadership first began to open doors to what would become his lifelong career.

In 2011, Jerome met the love of his life, Maggie. They connected through a sport they both loved and excelled at: bowling. What began as friendly competition blossomed into a friendship and, eventually, a love story that anyone would be lucky to experience. After five years of dating, Jerome asked Maggie to be his forever love and bride during a Journey concert, proposing during their favorite song, “Faithfully.” It was the perfect beginning to a lifetime of love, laughter, and devotion.

True to their fun-loving personalities, Jerome and Maggie celebrated their marriage in Las Vegas on April 8, 2017. Although they never had children of their own, their love for their family was immeasurable. Jerome now joins their precious angel baby in Heaven, where he will undoubtedly be watching over Maggie. He was also the proudest dog dad to four amazing pups. Frasier and Petey are already welcoming him in Heaven, while Leia and Miley will forever miss their dad’s love, attention, and companionship here on Earth.

Jerome’s professional career began in 1994 at 104.1 KRBE, where he made history as one of the first Filipino on-air personalities in the Greater Houston area. This was an accomplishment he carried with immense pride and never took for granted. What began as a career opportunity became a remarkable 32-year journey with KRBE, where he served in various roles, including creative director and production director. But his contributions went far beyond his titles. He was a trusted colleague, a mentor, a friend, and an emotional support system for many. His creativity, loyalty, humor, and generosity left an undeniable mark on the station and the people fortunate enough to work alongside him.

Jerome was a man of many talents, but few things brought him as much joy as cooking and barbecuing. His ribs were legendary and will forever be famous among those lucky enough to have tasted them. His love and knowledge of food were unmatched, but what made it even more special was his generosity. He didn’t just love food; he loved sharing it. Whether cooking for family, friends, or a gathering of hundreds, Jerome knew that some of life’s best memories were made around a table filled with good food and even better company.

Another gift Jerome shared so effortlessly was his quick wit and unmistakable sense of humor. Making people laugh came naturally to him, and he dreamed of one day performing stand-up comedy on a big stage. On September 17, 2026, that dream became a reality when Jerome helped sell out the Houston Improv. Family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones from every chapter of his life came together to celebrate and witness this incredible bucket-list achievement.

The evening became even more extraordinary when Jerome was presented with a proclamation from the Mayor of Houston recognizing his accomplishments and contributions as a pillar of Houston’s Filipino community. In an incredible honor, September 17 was officially recognized as “YoJ Day” in Houston. Jerome made it clear that this day must be celebrated every year, and naturally, he had specific instructions: everyone was to honor him by enjoying some good barbecue, especially ribs! It was a fitting tribute to a man whose impact on his community was as remarkable as his ability to make people laugh.

As we grieve the loss of this extraordinary man, we must also remember what Jerome would want most: for everyone to KEEP LAUGHING. It was one of his final messages to those he loved, and perhaps the greatest reflection of how he lived his life. Jerome had a rare gift for bringing laughter into any room, lifting spirits when people needed it most, and making everyone feel welcome. His presence was unforgettable, his humor infectious, and his heart generous.

During his final weeks, Jerome often told his loved ones that he had experienced his storybook ending and was ready to go home to Heaven. And now, we find comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his beloved parents and many other loved ones who undoubtedly have a celebration and feast waiting for him in Heaven — one that would make us all a little envious.

Jerome, thank you for the laughter, the memories, the unforgettable meals, the friendships, and the love you shared so freely. Thank you for the lives you touched, the community you helped strengthen, and the joy you brought into this world.

Your storybook ending may have come, but your story will continue through every person who carries a memory of you, every laugh shared in your honor, and every plate of barbecue enjoyed on September 17.

Keep laughing, YoJ. We will celebrate you always.

In lieu of flowers, Maggie asks to please make a donation to the Striking Against Breast Cancer Foundation https://strikingagainstbreastcancer.org/donate/

Visitation will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, US, on November 19, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and again on November 20, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, US, on November 21, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, followed by a Committal Service at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, US, on November 21, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Active pallbearers will be Jonas Referente, Larry Perdido, DJ Madarang, Eric Carino, Andrew Lucio III, and Luc Theeuwes, with Isaiah Salinas and Aiden Hermis serving as honorary pallbearers.