John Ricardo Jimenez Sr.

John Ricardo Jiménez, Sr. was born in Colon, Republic of Panama on February 9, 1947 to Naomi Lodge Thomas and Manuel Jiménez. John was known by those who love him as “Johnny” or “Pops.” He migrated to the United States in 1970, embarking on a 13 day journey by car through Central America, begrudgingly having to leave his family behind in Panama. Johnny found employment in a supply store in Brooklyn before joining the U.S. Army in 1972. The rest of the family migrated to the United States in July 1978, where they resided in Colorado Springs before moving to Brooklyn, New York in December 1979. The family moved to Queens, New York and resided there as a unit until John Jr. and Julian got married. Julian then moved to Springfield Gardens with his wife, Tonnie. In December 2005, John Jr., who married Regeena in 1996, bought a house in Central Islip, Long Island, and Johnny, Lorraine, and Jermaine joined them the following year. In 2007, Johnny and Lorraine bought a home in their native Panama, and for several years after, they split time between Panama and Central Islip until health issues prevented them from traveling back and forth. Johnny spent his remaining time in Central Islip until his sunset on March 26, 2024.

 Johnny was a proud member of the U.S. Army. After leaving active duty in 1980 and joining his family in New York, he worked as a security guard until he became employed by the U.S. Postal Service. Soon after joining the postal service, Johnny resumed his military service in the National Guard and returned to active duty to serve his country during the First Gulf War in 1990. After the Gulf War, he returned to the National Guard and retired from the U.S. Army in 1997. Johnny also retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 2003. He loved this country and was proud to have served in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Postal Service for over 20 years.

 Johnny married his wife, Lorraine, on July 10, 1970. The couple went on to have three sons, John “Chico” Jr., Julian, and Jermaine. He also had three grandchildren, John “J.R.” III, Jessica, and Julian “J.T.,” all of whom he helped to raise. He was also a loving and devoted father-in-law to Regeena and Tonnie. Johnny is survived by his immediate family, his siblings: Joshua, Luis “Casey,” Anita, Pamela, Perla “Candy,” Julie “Patty,” Elvia, Noris, and Ricardo, a host of family members, in-laws, and friends, who all love him dearly. He also leaves behind his buddy, protector, and dog, Cooper, who spent much of the day sitting by his side eagerly awaiting some of his food and affectionate back rubs.

 Johnny loved to watch sports, listen to music, cook, and go fishing. He also enjoyed spending time at the casino. Most importantly, he loved spending time chatting with his loved ones, often speaking with friends and family for hours on the phone every day. Johnny will be deeply missed by all of his family members and friends who love him dearly.

 Rest in Peace