Juan Roberto Castro

Juan Roberto Castro was born on February 8, 1952 in Havana, Cuba. As a small child, he emigrated first to Spain, and then to the United States with his beloved Grandmother, Mima. He then proceeded to live the American dream. As a teenager, he began apprenticing as an Electronics Technician with Southern Bell where he would go on to excel for over 40 years through remarkable changes in the Communications Industry. In 1972, he married the love of his life, Julia (Cachi). They were blessed to share nearly 54 years together until her passing in May 2026. He built a life for his wife and three children, Robert, Danny, and Katie, first in Hialeah, FL and then in Jacksonville, FL.

Juan had a unique gift for bringing his talents to the service of his family and community. Together with his wife, he mentored countless young couples in the sacrament of marriage and sponsored over a dozen immigrant families getting their start in the United States. He had a tremendous passion for cooking and could often be found cooking for the needy, acting as camp chef for church retreats, or preparing a loving and memorable meal for his family and friends. He had the selfless heart of a servant and an uncanny ability to sense the needs of others and come to their aid.

Faith and family were everything to Juan. He was a loving and devoted father to Robert, Danny, and Katie and spent his golden years delighting in the presence of his beloved granddaughters, Francis, Olivia, Lyla, and Diana. He created and passed along many traditions to his children and grandchildren, among which are a love of Miami sports, big and loud holiday gatherings, the celebration of life's everyday moments, and the stewardship of one's community. He loved the joy and connection found in music and put his heart and soul into worshipping with the Spanish language choir at St. Joseph's Catholic Church where he could be found each Sunday alongside his perfectly tuned congas and with a hot thermos of "cafecito" to warm the bodies and souls of his friends.

Juan was a friend, a brother, and a father figure to all who knew him. A warrior unto his last battle with cancer, he passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026. Juan's life was a tapestry of love, compassion, and devotion-a true testament to a life well-lived.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Juan's remarkable life. A visitation will take place on July 31, 2026, at Naugle Funeral Home in Jacksonville, FL from 5 to 8 PM, followed by a Mass at St. Joseph's Historic Catholic Church on August 1, 2026, at 12 PM where his spirit will be honored in the embrace of the community he cherished so dearly. His family will hold a Celebration of Life in honor of him and his beloved wife at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.