Jesus M. Soto-Mayor

He was born in Guyana, Puerto Rico on March 25, 1935.

After graduating from high school Jesse joined the United States Army proudly serving 20 years as a mechanic, heavy vehicle driver and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. He served two tours during the Vietnam War receiving numerous commendations including: National Defense Service Medal w/Oak leaf cluster (OLC), Good Conduct Medal 4th Award, Vietnam Service Medal w/ 1 Silver Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/1960 Device, Air Medal, Bronze Star Medal w/ 1st OLC, 4 Overseas Service Bars, Valorious Unit Citation, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/ Palm, Meritorious Unit Commendation and Army Commendation Medal. He was extremely proud of his service being stationed in Hawaii, Alaska, Texas, Massachusetts, Germany, Vietnam, and Georgia where he was honorable discharged.

While stationed in Hawaii he met his wife Irene (Tita) Lopes Feliciano and they married on April 14, 1956. They settled in Sarasota in 1974.

When Jesse retired, his main goal was to learn to fly which he accomplished in 1976, purchasing his own plane. He took his family with him on trips to the East coast of Florida. His other passion was woodworking making several pieces of furniture.

He is survived by his children Edgar Sotomayor (Dalynn) of Stuart, FL, Edward Sotomayor Sr. of Sarasota, FL, Adaline Williams of Sarasota, FL and Larry Sotomayor of Sarasota, FL; grandchildren, Justin Sotomayor (Melanie) of Canton, GA, Danielle Buddin of Port St. Lucie, FL, James Sotomayor of Venice FL, Autumn Laperriere of Sarasota, FL and Kimberly Jackson (Jamie) of Sarasota, FL. Jesse also leaves 10 great grandchildren.

Jesse also leaves behind sisters, Maria “Cookie” Aleman (Rafael) and Neri “Nellie” Soto and brothers, Edgar Soto and Angel Suarez.

Jesse was predeceased by wife Irene, sister Everlinda Soto, brother Louis Soto, grandsons, Brian Williams and Edward Sotomayor Jr.

Visitation and Service will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave. Sarasota FL. Following the service Jesse will join his wife Irene at Sarasota National Cemetery with military honors.