Modesto "JR" De Jesus Esbri's Obituary
Modesto "JR" De Jesus Esbri, age 50, passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida.
JR was born on January 24, 1975, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, to his loving mother, Olga Esbri. From a young age, JR developed a deep passion for cars. By the age of 15, he was working as a mechanic and went on to spend his life working in most of the auto shops in town. He had a particular fondness for Honda Civics in his early years, later growing to appreciate luxury models such as Lexus and BMWs.
JR also loved listening to music, especially while cruising in his car. He loved old-school salsa, reggae, and rap. He was a WWE fan, and always gravitated toward fun, excitement, and the simple joys of life.
JR is survived by his devoted mother and stepfather, Olga Esbri and Jose Rodriguez; his five children: Luz, Jose, Jordan, Justin, and Jonathan De Jesus; his siblings: Mayra De Jesus, Ivonne “Yari” Rosa, Mary Ann Rodriguez, and Jose Rodriguez, Jr.; and his half-siblings: Jerry and Gina De Jesus. He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews, including Christian Rodriguez, who shared a particularly close bond with JR and was like a son to him.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home, Serenity Gardens Chapel. Interment will immediately follow at Serenity Gardens.
What’s your fondest memory of Modesto "JR"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Modesto "JR"?
Share a story where Modesto "JR"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Modesto "JR" you’ll never forget.
How did Modesto "JR" make you smile?
