Jose "Jr" Gonzalez Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jose Gonzalez, who left this world on December 13, 2024, at the age of 62, after a brief but courageous battle with liver cancer. Born in Puerto Rico to Anna Gloria and the late Jose Gonzalez, Jose lived a life filled with love, faith, and dedication to his family and community. From a young age, Jose was a gifted athlete and a passionate sports fan. His talent shined on the basketball court, where he played for Sacred Heart School in Trenton, NJ. His eighth-grade team achieved an incredible record of 72 wins and only 1 loss. He continued his love for sports at Saint Anthony’s High School in Hamilton, NJ, and later at Asbury Park High School. After high school, Jose answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Army, where he served with honor for four years before being honorably discharged. He then dedicated 38 years of his career as a medical security officer at Ann Klein Forensic Center, leading by example with integrity, compassion, and strength. In 1998, he was recognized with the esteemed Thomas A. Hall Award for his ability to navigate the challenging environment of Ann Klein with dignity and respect, both among his colleagues and the patients he served. Beyond his professional life, Jose’s heart belonged to his family and his South Trenton community. He found immense joy in coaching Little League Baseball and CYO Basketball, sharing his love and knowledge of the game with younger generations. He had a unique ability to inspire, teach, and encourage, instilling in children the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Jose was a collector at heart, finding joy in Star Wars memorabilia, Franklin Mint treasures, train sets, and foreign currency. But above all else, his greatest passion was his faith in Jesus Christ. A true Christian, Jose’s unwavering belief in God brought him peace and strength throughout his life. His greatest love was his family, and he cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. Jose was predeceased by his father, Jose Gonzalez, and his beloved grandson, Russell Colon, who now welcome him into heaven. He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, carried on by his mother, Anna Gloria; his children, Edwin Colon (Caitlin), Jose Gonzalez (Sashel), and Janae Colon (Manny); and his cherished grandchildren, Nando, Ava, Giulia, Jacob, Mia, Sophia, and Naomi. Jose’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and faith. He fought his final battle with grace and strength, and he will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who were blessed to know and love him.

Jose "Jr" Gonzalez Jr.

July 26, 1962 - December 13, 2024