Jorge I. Melendez Vega's Obituary
Jorge (George) Iban Melendez, 81, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, at 10:25 a.m. at South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City, Florida.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nayma Ramirez-Melendez, 87; his parents, Elisa Vega, Jorge Melendez, Sr., stepmother Graciela Melendez; and his siblings Heriberto Melendez, Felipe Melendez, and Norma Melendez.
Jorge was born on December 12, 1943, in Guánica, Puerto Rico. At the age of 16, he moved to New York City to live with his father. Known for his generosity, warmth, and infectious spirit, Jorge had a way of making everyone feel welcome. He was the life of every gathering and had a deep passion for music, dancing, and movies.
He worked at Carter’s Department Store, where he met his future wife, Nayma. At the time, she was a single mother with a son, Jonathan Cruz, whom Jorge lovingly raised as his own. In 1972, they welcomed their daughter, Elizabeth Melendez.
Jorge also dedicated over 35 years to his work as a residential building concierge in New York City, where his professionalism, warmth, and friendly presence made a lasting impression on residents and colleagues alike.
In 2021, Jorge relocated to Florida with his devoted life partner, Luz Selenia Nazario, to be closer to his daughter, and Luz to her daughter, granddaughter, and great-grandchildren.
Luz was his companion, caregiver, and closest confidante and they shared a deep and loving bond.
He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Melendez-Womack (Eric Womack) of Lakeland Florida. Son Jonathan Cruz (Michael Swiencki) of Atlanta, Georgia.
He is also lovingly remembered by his life partner, Luz Selenia Nazario; her daughters, Mildred Jimenez-Waterbury Connecticut and Vilma Jimenez-Wimauma Florida, and their children and grandchildren.
His brother Miguel Angel Melendez (Jackie- Detroit Michigan), Brother Jose Antonio Melendez (Awilda - New York City), Sister, Santa Melendez- Guánica Puerto Rico, Stepbrother, Joseph Thompson (New York City) and his family; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends who cherished his kind heart and joyful presence.
Jorge’s legacy of kindness, joy, and love will continue to live on in all those whose lives he touched.
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