Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Jose Angel Toledo Sr., known affectionately as Jose to his family and friends, passed away on Friday May 24, 2024, after a long illness. Born on Sunday April 14, 1946, in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, he was a man whose warmth and generosity brought light and comfort to everyone around him. Jose's life journey culminated at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Massachusetts. Jose's story began on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, where he was born into the loving arms of his parents, the late Miguel Toledo and Ramona Martinez.
He was a cherished brother to many, six of whom preceded him in death. Carrying a sincere interest in others and armed with a fearless personality that allowed him to speak to random strangers as if he’s known them forever, Jose managed to make a profound impact on the world around him, fostering relationships that would last a lifetime. In his professional life, Jose dedicated over 27 years to S.A.Y Industries/Penn Pride, where his commitment and hard work were as steadfast as his friendly demeanor.
Colleagues knew him as not just an employee, but as a true friend who brought joy and comradery to the workplace. Jose's passions were simple yet deeply rooted in the joys of life. He was an avid fan of the Three Stooges, wrestling, Animal planet and the Alaskan Bush People, finding pleasure in the laughter and excitement they brought to his home. Yet, it was in cooking and music that Jose found his truest form of expression. The aromas of his delectable dishes would fill the house and cause one’s mouth to water. He made the world’s best mashed potatoes and a delicious pernil asado (roasted pork shoulder). He loved ripping up and down the road in his little red KIA SOUL blasting Salsa and merengue music. Jose always had such a zest for life. He loved cracking jokes and acting silly. It was simply his nature. Above all, the words that best describe Jose are loving, kind, and friendly. His heart, large enough to envelop all he met, is echoed in the legacy he leaves behind.
Jose is survived by his wife, Cecilia Quero Toledo, and his beloved children; Gesenia (Toledo) Jimenez-Tubio, Juan M. Toledo, José A. Toledo Jr, Shirley A. (Toledo) Travieso, Michael A. Toledo, and his stepchildren Javier Borjas, Rogelio Borjas, Sergio Borjas, and Sanjuana Lourdes Borjas. His life's story will continue to be told through the many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward. Jose also leaves behind his brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews, who will remember him fondly for his boundless love and friendship. Before his passing, Jose experienced the sorrow of saying goodbye to his parents, to his ex-wife, Maria Elena (Cardona) Toledo as well as the six siblings previously mentioned.
He faced these losses with the same strength and grace that characterized his life. As we bid farewell to Jose Angel Toledo Sr., we reflect on a life rich with love, laughter, and the unwavering strength of family bonds. He has been the cornerstone of his family, a beacon of joy to his friends, and a stalwart presence to all who had the privilege of knowing him. While we mourn his departure, we also celebrate the remarkable man he was and the countless lives he touched with his extraordinary spirit. Jose's life was one well-lived, filled with the music he adored, the flavors he created, and the love he shared. As we remember him, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. Jose Angel Toledo Sr. will be dearly missed, yet he will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, June 3 from 11:00 to 12:00 in the funeral home with a graveside service to follow at St. Leo Cemetery.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jose Angel Toledo, please visit our floral store.