Francisco Reyner Arias Girald Jr.

Francisco Reynier Arias Girald Jr., age 56, of Winter Park, Florida, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Thursday, May 15, 2025, due to sudden cardiac death.

Francisco was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. A former athlete and a gentle giant, his presence was as strong as it was tender. Though he appeared intimidating to those who did not know him, he had a soft heart and a deep desire to care for others. He loved in a big way—without reservation—and if he loved you, you knew it. His hugs were unforgettable, his humor disarming, and his loyalty unwavering.

Francisco had an immense love for his parents. He admired and respected his father, Francisco R. Arias Morales, and carried the memory of his late mother, Ida I. Arias Girald, close to his heart every day. His bond with his sister, Ida N. Arias Seijo, was special and marked by a lifetime of loving and cherished memories. He loved her deeply and always wished her peace and happiness. Francisco also held a special place in his heart for his youngest sister, Gretche S. Arias Girald, whose passing left a lasting mark on his spirit. Her memory remained a quiet presence in his life—an echo of shared childhood, laughter, and the kind of sibling love that never truly disappears.

Francisco is preceded in death by his mother, Ida I. Arias Girald, and his sister, Gretche S. Arias Girald.

He shared an especially close and loving bond with his oldest daughter, Carson A. Arias, who was the light of his life. Their connection was built on laughter, understanding, and unconditional love—something that brought him great pride and comfort.

Francisco was not only a devoted father, but also a deeply cherished uncle. He played a loving role in the lives of his nieces—Chantelle A. Lopez Arias, Shayna S. Lopez Arias, and Alondra A. Kunze—whom he loved as if they were his own daughters. The bond he shared with Chantelle and Shayna, who were born just two months apart from Carson, was especially unique. They often called themselves “triplets”—inseparable in childhood and forever connected in heart. Though there was a long period when Francisco was absent from their lives, his return brought healing, presence, and the unmistakable strength of his love. Losing him now feels like losing him twice—but the love he gave endures.

On top of being an amazing father, uncle, son, and brother; he was also a loving and caring husband. Tansania and Francisco shared 6 beautiful years together, which was nowhere near enough. He was an attentive and dedicated husband who loved Tansania and her children infinitely. He loved her children as if they were his own. Always giving hope and support to his wife. She hopes to see him in her next life and continue the beautiful love they shared. He will be missed more than words can describe. She thanks him tremendously for showing her what unconditional love looked like.

He is survived by his loving wife, Tansania Pagan; daughter Carson A. Arias; step-son Christopher A. Santana; step-daughter Ciara V. Pozo; father Francisco R. Arias Morales; sister Ida N. Arias Seijo; and nieces Chantelle A. Lopez Arias, Shayna S. Lopez Arias, and Alondra A. Kunze.

A Tribute from Carson

“My father was the quiet strength in every storm, the warmth in every winter, and the light that found me when I felt lost. He held my hand through childhood and never let go, not really. Even when there were years of silence, his presence never completely left me. And when he returned, so did the love—strong and familiar. Now, I lose him again. But this time, I carry him with me. I feel him in the hush of morning light, in the whisper of trees, in the rhythm of my heartbeat. Though he has stepped beyond this life, his love remains, unbroken and eternal.”

—Carson

A Tribute from His Nieces

“You weren’t just our uncle—you were like a father, a protector, and a guiding light. There were long years without you, and they were hard. But when you were with us, you were unforgettable. We laughed harder, felt braver, and loved deeper. Losing you feels like losing you twice—but what you gave us still holds. We will carry your love forward, always, eternally.”

—Shayna & Chantelle

Francisco has now earned his wings.

From above, he watches over each of us—his family, his friends, and all those he loved—offering strength, comfort, and protection from beyond. His spirit is free, but his love remains forever rooted in the hearts he touched.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3:00 p.m. at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (Winter Park Chapel).

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To share your memories of Francisco or leave a condolence for his family, please visit the guestbook below.