Jose Rafael Cintron

It is with boundless love and aching hearts that we share the passing of Jose Rafael Cintron Lopez. Tenderly known as Tito, who was peacefully called to eternal rest on March 26, 2026, at the age of 71.

Born on January 7, 1955, in the lush mountains of Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, Jose carried his homeland within him—its warmth, its music, and its spirit—through every chapter of his life.

As the son of a devoted U.S. veteran, Jose’s early years were marked by movement and change, teaching him resilience and grace from a young age. In his teenage years, fate guided his family back to Puerto Rico, where he came of age in Bayamón. There, with his brother and two sisters, he completed his high school education and took a decisive step toward his calling, earning acceptance into the University of Puerto Rico at Río Piedras. In 1978, he proudly earned his degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, setting the foundation for a life defined by service, discipline, and care for others.

It was within the halls of the university that Jose encountered the love that would shape his life—Olga Iris Soto. A fellow pharmacy student, Olga became his partner in both purpose and heart. Their love blossomed quietly but deeply, a rare devotion that endured through decades of shared dreams, trials, and joy. They were united in marriage on September 4, 1982, in Puerto Rico, beginning a lifelong journey side by side—one rooted in faith, mutual respect, and unwavering companionship.

Jose was a man of many roles, all carried with humility and strength: a devoted husband, a loving father, a faithful son, a cherished uncle, and a loyal friend. He lived with a quiet steadiness, building a life anchored in family, guided by faith, and marked by dignity.

With honor and pride, Jose devoted more than 28 years to both his profession and his country. He served with distinction as a field artillery officer in the U.S. Army, as a pharmacist in the U.S. Navy, and later within the U.S. Public Health Service and the Bureau of Prisons. His final chapter of service was spent caring for fellow veterans at the Veterans Affairs office, where he worked until his retirement in 2017, at the age of 62. His legacy of service is one of dedication, intellect, and unwavering integrity.

Above all else, Jose’s heart belonged to his family. As the beloved patriarch, he opened his arms and his wisdom to all who crossed his path, offering presence, patience, and love without condition. He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Olga Iris Cintron, and their two sons: Rafael Jose Cintron (42), and his wife Heather, and Hector Joel Cintron (38), and his wife Julissa—each a living reflection of his values and spirit.

Jose found immeasurable joy in his role as Abuelo, delighting in storytelling, laughter, and shared moments with his grandchildren: Sofia Rose, Julian James, Dominic Christian, Eliana Victoria, and Isabella Noelle. To them, he was a gentle guide and a steady presence—his love woven into their lives forever.

Music was one of Jose’s lifelong passions. With guitar in hand, he found peace and expression through classical pieces and traditional Caribbean melodies, filling his home with warmth and memory. In retirement, Jose and Olga embraced the gift of time, re‑exploring the world together with brothers and sisters by their side. From Spain to Italy, and across Europe, they gathered memories as priceless as souvenirs, until life gently carried Jose back home to Orlando, Florida, where he was surrounded by love.

Jose will be remembered for his quiet wisdom, his steadfast devotion, his gentle strength, and the unspoken ways he showed care for those around him. He lived a life with purpose, humility, and grace—and his presence will continue to echo in the hearts of all who loved him.

A memorial service honoring Jose’s life will be held on Monday, April 20, at 2:00 PM, at Baldwin Fairchild, located at 7520 Aloma Avenue, Winter Park, Florida 32792.

On Tuesday, April 21, at 2:00 PM, Jose will be laid to rest with full military honors at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, located at 5525 U.S. Highway 1 North, Mims, Florida 32754.