Jose Fontanez

Eulogy for Jose Antonio Fontanez (Tony)

March 19, 1950- January 1, 2026

Today we gather to honor and celebrate the fife of Jose Antonio Fontanez, affectionately known to all of us as Tony—a man whose strength, steady presence, and gentle spirit touched many lives.

Tony entered into peaceful rest on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at AdventHealth in Orlando, Florida. He was born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, to Anastacio Fontanez and Felicita Reyes, where his life was rooted in family, culture, and resilience from the start. He leaves behind 9 Siblings: 8 Brothers and 1 Sister.

At just 14 years old, Tony made the courageous journey from Puerto Rico to Chicago, where he completed his education and learned at an early age the value of hard work and perseverance. Those lessons stayed with him throughout his life. He later married and was blessed with four children—two sons and two daughters—who were always a source of pride for him.

Eventually, Tony made Orlando, Florida, his home, where he dedicated over 25 years of loyal service to the Central Florida Expressway. He was known as someone dependable, hardworking, and committed—qualities that reflected the way he lived his life every day.

Tony later met Claire Santiago, with whom he shared many meaningful years filled with companionship, love, and shared memories. Through this relationship, Tony became a devoted stepfather to Rochelle Santiago, Sonya Santiago, and Yolanda Santiago, embracing them as his own and becoming an important part of their lives.

Tony found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved bowling, horse racing, and spending time in the kitchen, where cooking became another way he showed love to those around him. His meals brought people together, just as his presence did—-calm, warm, and welcoming.

Above all else, Tony was a peaceful man. He carried himself with dignity, kindness, and patience. He didn't seek attention, but his steady nature and gentle heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He was someone you could count on, someone whose presence brought comfort just by being there.

Tony's laugh was truly unforgettable—loud, contagious, and often heard before you even saw him. Once he started laughing, it was impossible not to laugh along, even if you didn't laugh or understand the joke; he would laugh for everyone in the room. He loved telling jokes and stories with his own unique flair, and no matter how many times you'd heard them, he told them like it was the first time. His humor was his gift, turning ordinary moments into memories we'll smile about forever.

Tony leaves behind many relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory, his wisdom, and the love he shared so freely. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the stories we tell, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave.

Gone, but never forgotten. Forever in our hearts.

If you have any memories to share, please place them in the guest book below for the family to cherish.