Jose E. Villa MD

Born on September 6, 1926, in Matanzas, Cuba, Jose was the beloved son of Jose Villa and Marina Iglesias Villa. He earned his medical degree from the University of Havana, followed by internships in Detroit, MI, San Francisco, CA, and Tampa, FL. He completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, where he later dedicated many years as a board-certified psychiatrist and neurologist.

Jose’s career advanced to the role of hospital director at the Mt. Pleasant Mental Health Institute in Mt. Pleasant, IA. He eventually relocated to New York City, where he continued practicing psychiatry with great commitment to the mental health and well-being of his patients.

A passionate traveler, Jose frequently visited Europe, particularly Spain and France. He was a devoted reader and lover of the arts, with a special fondness for theater.

He is survived by his nephews Luis J. Arango and Laurentino Arango; nieces Lizette A. Beltram(Hank), Marcia Arango, and Miriam Arango LaBella; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Jose and Marina, sisters Marina Villa Arango and Iraida Villa Burke, and nephew Fernando Arango.

A private family memorial will be held at Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home in Stamford, CT, followed by burial at St. John Cemetery in Darien.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Nizzim, Jose’s longtime friend and weekly visitor, as well as the compassionate staff at Greenwich Woods Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, especially Dr. Buddha, Deanna, and Kristen for their devoted care and support.

Jose will be remembered for his intellect, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his family and profession.