Photography
Official Obituary of

Jose Cortes

March 19, 1949 ~ December 18, 2024 (age 75) 75 Years Old

Jose Cortes Obituary

Jose Cortes, a cherished patriarch, devoted father, and a beacon of love and laughter, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024, in Dover, Florida, at the age of 75. Born on March 19, 1949, in Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico, Jose's journey was marked by an unwavering commitment to his family, a passion for the outdoors, and a talent for crafting and nurturing life in all its forms.

Jose's life was a testament to the power of love and dedication. Jose and Margarita Deleon, Their union was blessed with six children, who in turn filled their home with the laughter and joy of twenty-two grandchildren and 3 great granddaughters.

He is survived by:
The love of his life - Margarita Deleon (61) and their 6 children, 22 grandchildren and 3 great granddaughters. Jose Cortes Jr (43) Veronica Cortes (DIL) Jose Cortes Ill (12)
Monica Solis (41) Margarito Solis (SIL) Children - Juan (26) Krystal (23) Abigail (18) Valentina (14) Yanelly (3) Leilani (1) Ellieana (8 months).
*Rosa Cortes (40) Antonio Santiago (SIL) Children - Princess (22) Emily (20) Elisa (17) Pablo
(13) Mia (11) Mareli (2), Raquel Coronado (35) Victor Coronado (SIL) Children - Leonard (17) Chris (10) Ivan (10) Cori (9).
Rebeca Alvarez (32) Leonardo Alvarez (SIL) Children - David (17) Yudi (15) Gracie (15) Daizy (11).
Mariela Cortes (30) Heidi (9) Luis (8) Bladimir (5).

A hardworking man, Jose retired as a supervisor at Reeders Nursery, where he was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to lead with both firmness and kindness. His hands, always ready to work, were a symbol of his dedication to providing for his loved ones. Even after retirement, Jose's love for working with his hands never waned. He was a gifted woodworker, capable of building and repairing anything that came his way.

Jose's interests were as vibrant and diverse as the gardens he tended. He was a culinary enthusiast, known for his delectable cooking and his signature sweet tea, which brought family and friends together around the table. His green thumb was legendary; plants thrived under his care, and being outside among them was where he felt most at peace. Sundays were a special day for Jose, as he enjoyed browsing the treasures at The Big Top flea market, a tradition that brought him simple joy and satisfaction.

Among the many memories cherished by those who knew him, Jose's adventurous spirit stood out. He had a unique hobby of catching baby alligators from the pond at the nursery, a testament to his fearless nature and zest for life. His favorite phrase, "AVER QUE PASA" ("We'll see what happens"), embodied his approach to life's uncertainties with a shrug and a smile. Though he could be stubborn at times, it was this same tenacity that made him an amazingly loving father and grandfather.

Jose's legacy is one of love, kindness, and humor. He was the heart of every gathering, the storyteller who could spin tales that captivated his audience, and the wise advisor whose words carried the weight of experience and compassion. His laughter was a melody that will echo in the hearts of his family forever.

As we bid farewell to Jose Cortes, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a man deeply loved. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the plants he nurtured will continue to grow and flourish. Jose's spirit, like the woodwork he so skillfully crafted, will stand strong and resilient, a lasting tribute to a life well-lived.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Jose Cortes will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in the lives of those he loved and the world he made a little brighter simply by being in it.
Jose's life was a testament to the power of love and dedication. He found his soulmate in

Services will be held privately by the family.

Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563, (813) 717-9300


Services

You can still show your support by sending flowers directly to the family
SHARE OBITUARY

© 2026 Haught Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved. Funeral Home website by CFS & TA | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Accessibility