Jose R. Melendez

He was predeceased by his parents, Pablo Antonio Melendez and Maria Laureano, and his siblings Jose Luis Melendez, Luz Maria Melendez, Pedro Jose Melendez, and Anadelia Melendez.Jose’s love of life began when he was born prematurely at 7 months, weighing about two pounds.He survived thanks to his mother’s love and determination to nurture him despite having no medical intervention available.

At 12 years of age, he moved to Paterson, NJ with his family. There, as an older teenager, he dedicated his life to Jehovah God and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on July 23,1971. In 1975 he moved to Jamestown NY to extend his Bible teaching ministry to the Spanish speaking community in Chautauqua County.Jose’s journey of love and dedication shined through his enduring marriage to Linda Millard Melendez, his wife of 48 years. Together, they brought into this world their beloved children Arianna (widow of Nemecio Aguilar), Alesandro (married to Amber), and Josiah (married to Dianne), who reflect Jose’s warmth and generosity. He lives on not only in his immediate family but also through his siblings: Jose Francisco Melendez, Julia Melendez Ortiz, Maria Antonia Melendez, Jose Antonio Melendez, and Aidaliz Melendez, as well as the many nieces and nephews who held him dear.

Jose earned his GED in 1985 and in 2006 an Associate in Science degree from Empire State College, SUNY–an accomplishment of which he was very proud. Professionally, Jose worked a number years at the Ames Department Store before contributing his passion and skills to the JobCorp in Cassadaga, NY. Jose found his calling at Family Services of Chautauqua, where he served as the Manager and interpreter for the Latino Outreach Program, touching hearts and changing lives through his commitment to supporting and understanding people dealing with mental health challenges.Jose’s contributions went beyond his work and family. As a full-time minister of the Jehovah Witnesses, he devoted himself to his faith community at the Dunkirk Spanish Congregation. His love and faith were sincere, touching everyone he met with his spirit and dedication. He was a father figure to many, both in the congregation and in the community at large.Jose delighted in dancing, with merengue being his favorite, especially when he spun his love,Linda, around the dance floor. His well-known sense of humor was a source of joy, his laughter contagious, and his sincere love of people his gift to the world. People felt a unique sense ofsafety and respect with Jose; he was a pillar in his community, esteemed by many.

Visiting hours will be on Friday, Aug. 8 from 1-3 pm and 7-9 pm at the Morse Funeral Home, 19E. Main St., Brocton NY. A bilingual memorial service will be held 2:30 PM on Aug. 9 at Chautauqua Suites Hotel and Expo Center, 215 W Lake Rd, Mayville, NY. For more information including Zoom option, please visit www.morsefh.com.