Fernando Feliciano Jr.

Fred was born on February 28, 1942, in the Paris sector of Lajas, Puerto Rico, the first of four children of Fernando Feliciano-Ruiz. and Livia Segarra-Colomer. His early years were spent on a sugarcane and pineapple plantation in southwestern Puerto Rico. At age 13, his family moved to New York City, first settling in East Harlem, then purchasing a brownstone in downtown Brooklyn where he lived until relocating to San Antonio in 2012.

The early loss of his mother shaped Fred into a caring and deeply responsible man. He worked to support his family, raise his younger siblings, and remained devoted to his family throughout his life. His guiding philosophy was simple: “take care of everyone.”

Upon graduating from high school in Manhattan, Fred began his career with New York City’s Human Resources Administration as a file clerk. Through hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks over a 36-year career, retiring as an Assistant Commissioner and head of Personnel. He was respected as a leader and took pride in mentoring others to succeed. In the 1960s, he served in the United States Army at Fort Hood, Texas as a training specialist.

Fred was a self-taught artist in various media with a lifelong passion for art and culture. Upon retirement, he fulfilled a longtime goal in 2008 by earning a BA in Art History from New York University. After moving to San Antonio, he became a docent at the San Antonio Museum of Art to share his enthusiasm for art with others.

In 1979, he met his spouse, Joe, at a small dance club in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. They became a team from day one.

Fred cherished his family, his Puerto Rican heritage and Spanish culture, his home and garden, being out in nature, road trips, and American history. He was curious, creative, generous, and deeply loyal. In his spare time, he pursued interests in art, architecture, travel, dancing, live performances, good food, and curiosity about world cultures.

Fred is survived by his spouse, Joseph “Joe” Chodash, and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and chosen family. He was predeceased by his parents, Fernando Feliciano Sr. and Livia Segarra; his sister, Elisa “Lily” Hueda; and his brothers, William “Willie” Feliciano and Edwin “Eddie” Feliciano.

A celebration of life will be held at Christ Lutheran Church of Alamo Heights on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 11:00. Interment will take place at a later date in the family Panteón in Lajas, Puerto Rico, where his story began.

Fred is remembered for the life he built, the people he cared for, the knowledge and beauty he pursued, and the years of love shared with Joe. He is deeply missed.