Jacinto Rodriguez Jr.

Jacinto Rodriguez, Jr. passed away on July 31, 2026 at the age of 72. He was a man who lived life to the absolute fullest — a devoted husband, father, and friend whose adventurous spirit, generous heart, and easy charm touched everyone lucky enough to know him. Jess didn't just live his years; he filled them, again and again, with more courage, laughter, and love than most people manage in several lifetimes.

Jess was born on February 17, 1954 to Mary Magdalena Adame and Jacinto Rodriguez, who had immigrated from Portugal, where the family once ran a small café. After settling in San Jose, California, his parents went on to own a hotel and bar in what is now known as San Pedro Square — a fitting beginning for a son who would grow up to be just as warm and welcoming.

A proud Army veteran, Jess served as part of the military's elite parachute team, an experience that launched a lifelong passion. He went on to own and operate his own skydiving center, logging over 20,000 jumps and training generations of skydiving instructors who carry his knowledge and passion forward. Never one to do things halfway, Jess also started his own parachute packing company, built on decades of hands-on expertise and an unwavering commitment to doing things right.

Jess's drive and versatility carried him through an extraordinary range of pursuits. He served on the Army Corps of Engineers scuba diving team for the City of San Francisco, as a sheriff for the County of Santa Clara, and as a police officer for the City of San Jose. Jess owned two successful security companies, and earned his pilot's license, spending countless hours flying across the country simply for the love of it. Whatever he set his mind to, he mastered.

Adventure was simply part of who Jess was. He loved boating, jet skiing, and motorcycle rides, and he was always ready for the next road trip in his motorhome — favorite destinations included Idaho, Montana, and the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota. He was also thrilled to catch a Kid Rock concert along the way — just one more experience added to a life that never seemed to run out of them.

But for all his accomplishments and adventures, those who knew Jess best will tell you his greatest gift was his heart. He could strike up a conversation with a total stranger and, within minutes, have made a lifelong friend. He always provided for his family and loved ones, and he was known for going above and beyond for the people in his life without ever being asked. Generous, warm, endlessly curious about the world and the people in it, Jess brought a rare combination of adventurous spirit and genuine kindness to everything he did. In recent years, Jess's Christian faith became an increasingly important part of his life. He found a spiritual home at Gilroy Four Square Church where he quickly became a cherished and beloved member of the congregation.

Jess is survived by his wife, Carole; children, Nicole and Curtis; step-children, Anthony, Richard, and Nickolas; grandchild, Enzo; son-in-law, Abram; and daughter-in-laws, Jennifer and Tiffany. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Magdalena Adame and Jacinto Rodriguez.

Jess leaves behind a legacy of adventure, generosity, and love — a life lived at full speed and full heart, in the air, on the water, on the open road, and always surrounded by the people he cherished. He will be deeply missed, and forever remembered for the joy, warmth, and wonder he brought into the lives of everyone around him.

A celebration of Jess's life will take place at the Gilroy Revival Center on Sunday, August 9, 2026 at 3pm. A viewing service will be held at the Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary on Monday, August 10, 2026 from 9am to 12pm, with the burial service starting at 12:30pm at the Santa Clara Mission Cemetery. A reception will follow at the American Legion Hall Post 419 at 1pm.