Jose J. Guzman

Jose J Guzman Jr., age 70, passed away in his room from acute respiratory failure on September 8, 2024, at home. He resided with his son, AJ and daughter-in-law, Pilar, in Tinton Falls NJ. Born February 5, 1954, the only son of Georgina Rivera and Jose Guzman Sr in Newark, New Jersey. He grew up in North Jersey surrounded by friends and family. He was a first-generation Puerto Rican set on making a name for himself. Jose attended Seton Hall University where he studied communications. After university he went on to become one of the top-rated radio DJs in New York while working for 98.7 Kiss FM. Obtaining a number one spot in one of the most competitive radio markets in the world. Best known for his Latin, jazz, and funk styling as well as his classic catch phrase “this is Jose Guzman contigo”. He truly was encapsulated by his chosen sign off music, Killer Joe by Quincy Jones. And as we all know his taste in music was in fact killer. After his career in radio, he went on to work in sales where he won countless awards for his talent and worked his way up to management. Cars were not only a passion for him but a way of life. Jose owned a red 1980 MGB roadster that he loved to cruise around the jersey shore in. Playing music from the 70s and 80s notably Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass and countless others. Jose loved traveling as well. Some of his favorite locales were Puerto Rico and Mexico. There was nothing he enjoyed more than a cold beer on a hot day at the beach in Luquillo or San Juan, interspersed with some Bacardi 151 pina coladas. Jose enjoyed fine dining, great food and great wine, his favorite restaurant was Mar Belo in Long Branch where he enjoyed pork and clams, lobster and of course the Sangria. He loved and was loved by his family; from myself and my wife, his mother and father, half siblings, cousins, girlfriends, friends and acquaintances. Jose was truly one of the coolest people in the world. He always demonstrated his strength and persistence overcoming difficult odds. He made a good life for himself and his family. A life he can be proud of. It was by no means perfect, but it was filled with love and celebration, joy and pain, but most importantly the people who loved and cared for him. I for one will always remember him as the coolest, strongest man I know. I will cherish the good times we had. The great memories we made. The laughter, the tears, the dancing, the singing and the joie de vivre that made you appreciate the little moments. Jose was truly a great man, someone we can all be proud of, someone we loved to be around. But most importantly, he was my Dad. I will be eternally thankful for the love that he gave me and all he taught me. He truly was one of a kind and will leave a hole in our lives. I’m sure he would want us to look back fondly on him and the memories we made and keep moving forward with him in our hearts. When you hear a great song, drink a good glass of wine or eat a well-cooked meal; think warmly of him and the time we shared and carry his spirit with you. I’ll never forget you dad. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday September 21, 2024, at the Bongarzone Funeral home Tinton Falls, NJ. 2400 Shafto Rd, Tinton Falls, NJ 07712. The family will be accepting cash donations in lieu of flowers to help cover expenses for his service.

Jose J. Guzman

February 5, 1954 - September 8, 2024