Luis Javier Juarbe

Luis J. Juarbe, affectionately known as “Welo” to his grandchildren, passed away at the age of 72 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Born in Camuy, Puerto Rico, to Amelia Crespo and Javier Juarbe, Luis grew up surrounded by family and the vibrant culture of his beloved Puerto Rico. As a child, he moved to Bridgeport, where he built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to those he held dear.

Luis was preceded in death by his sister, Nelly Hernandez, and his brother Ralphy Juarbe. He is survived by his sisters Rosa Juarbe and Iris Crespo, and his brothers Gilberto Juarbe, Heriberto Juarbe, and youngest brother Ralphy Juarbe.

A man of joy and generosity, Luis had a happy, outgoing personality and a heart as big as his smile. He loved caring for everyone close to him, always putting family and friends first. To so many, Luis was more than family—he was a loyal friend and caring neighbor. He was the person people turned to for help, companionship, and comfort, always ready with advice, a laugh, or simply his presence. He truly was everything to everyone who knew him.

Luis loved spending time in Seaside Park, walking along the shore, catching up with friends, and peacefully looking out at the water at the beach. Those simple moments brought him joy and reflected the warmth and calm spirit he shared with others.

He had a passion for collecting, thrifting, and creating arts and crafts, finding beauty and creativity in the everyday. Luis was also an ardent lover of music, particularly old-school salsa, and he could often be found enjoying a good novela while tapping his foot to a familiar rhythm.

Luis devoted much of his life to his work, providing for his family and instilling in his children and grandchildren the values of hard work, loyalty, and love. He is survived by his children, Alexandra Juarbe, Luis Juarbe, Stacy Juarbe, Samantha Smajla, Jordan Juarbe, and Kamishely Juarbe, and was especially close to his grandchildren Dondre Nesmith, Jacob Morales(Hailey Garcia), Arthur Blackwell, and great-granddaughter Dre’anna Nesmith. He also leaves behind grandchildren in Florida—Cortez Juarbe, Isaius Juarbe, Amiah Lynette Rodriguez, Gabriel Luis Rodriguez—and in South Carolina, Miracle Turner, Kameron Javier Juarbe; all of whom felt his love and guidance in different ways.

Luis carried his Puerto Rican heritage proudly, embracing its music, culture, and traditions, and sharing them joyfully with everyone around him. Those who knew him will remember his laughter, his big heart, his creative spirit, and the way he made everyone feel valued and loved.

He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and the countless memories he created with family and friends.

Funeral services have been entrusted to Community Funeral Chapels, 798 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, Connecticut. Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Friday, May 15th, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow immediately after at Lakeview Cemetery, 885 Boston Avenue, Bridgeport, Connecticut.