Jose "Papo" Tejera, age 59, of Ridge Manor, Florida, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Born on October 28, 1965, in Havana, Cuba, Jose was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend whose legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Jose married the love of his life, Lisa, on March 31, 1984, in Tampa, Florida. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter. Jose was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord and lived with a heart of gold. He was known for his ability to make everyone laugh, whether through his jokes, pranks, or his ever-present willingness to lend a helping hand without expecting anything in return.

Jose was a man of many passions. He loved fishing, tending to his garden, and working on cars, especially his cherished 1969 Volkswagen Beetle, which he rebuilt himself. These hobbies reflected his hands-on spirit and his joy in creating and sharing with those he loved.

Above all, Jose was a devoted and supportive husband and father. His family remembers him as a man who brought warmth and light to their lives, always putting others before himself.

Jose is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Lisa Tejera; his daughter, Maylen Tejera; his parents, Jose and Teresa Tejera; siblings Maylen (Fred) Puentes, Teresa (Jose) Merced, and Roberto (Trina) Tejera; and his grandchildren, Aubree and Gabriel Tejera. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and his beloved dogs, Lily and Coco. Jose is reunited in heaven with his son, Jose Tejera, who passed in April 2020.

A celebration of Jose's life will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 5:00 PM at New Wave Church.

Jose "Papo" Tejera's kindness, laughter, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.