Jose was born in Portugal on May 4, 1929, to the late Abilio and Maria (Esteves) Gomes.
In search of better opportunities, Jose made the courageous decision to move abroad. His journey took him to France, Venezuela, and Brazil before ultimately settling in the United States. He and his wife spent 12 years in Brazil, where Jose worked as a sous-chef at the renowned Columbo restaurant and welcomed their first child, Carla. Later, they returned to Portugal, where Manuel and Fernanda were born, before moving to the U.S., where their youngest, Grace, completed the family.
Jose had a lifelong passion for soccer and was an avid fan of the game, taking special joy in watching two of his grandchildren become stand out players. He had a quick wit, always entertaining with jokes and funny stories. He loved reading and often immersed himself in books on a wide range of topics. Above all, Jose cherished his family—especially his grandchildren—who brought him immeasurable happiness and pride.
Jose is survived by his beloved wife, Maria B. Gomes; his four children: Carla Feola and her husband Edward, Manuel Gomes and his wife Vanderleia, Fernanda Wise and her husband Curt, and Graciela Dent and her husband John; his grandchildren: Steven Wise, Matthew Wise, Sophia Gomes, and Benjamin Gomes; and his siblings: Inacia Rodrigues, Isaura Cunha, and Venusina Fernandes. He was predeceased by his parents and three siblings.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High Street, Newton, NJ 07860. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM at the funeral home, with entombment at Newton Cemetery Company in Newton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to an alzheimer’s or cancer charity of your choice. Condolences may be shared with the family below.
