Jose Matos

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Obituary — Jose Matos (1936–2026)

Jose Matos, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy defined by perseverance, humor, and unwavering dedication to his family. Born in Cuba in 1936 at Finca El Rosario, San Emilio, Jose grew up without the benefit of a formal education, as he began working at a very young age to help support his family. As the eldest of his siblings, he quickly learned responsibility — a quality that would shape his entire life.

After many unsuccessful attempts to secure a visa — so many that embassy staff came to know him personally — his persistence finally paid off in 1967, when his brother-in-law Delio helped obtain approval for him to immigrate and brought him here, where his only son was born.

He worked tirelessly to provide for his family. Known as Joseito el bodeguero, his journey in the grocery business began in Cuba as a boy working in a small store and continued for decades in the United States. He bought, operated, and helped build neighborhood stores in New Jersey, New York, and Tampa, Florida ultimately settling in Dover, New Jersey.

His career included early years at La Mia in Passaic, many memorable years at Caballo Blanco in Newark, and later his last beloved Latino American Supermarket in Dover, where he continued working well into his 80s. For Jose, these stores were more than businesses — they were where friendships formed, stories were shared, and laughter was constant.

Jose loved to laugh and make others laugh. He enjoyed dominoes and cards with family and friends. His humor, warmth, and generosity made him unforgettable to family, friends, customers, and all who crossed his path.

Above all, Jose was a deeply dedicated family man. Everything he built and achieved was motivated by love for his family. He leaves behind cherished memories, enduring lessons often left on his son’s desk in the form of post it notes about hard work without short cuts, and a legacy of love that will continue through his children, grandchildren, relatives, friends, and the many lives he touched.

He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered with affection, gratitude, and pride.

He is survived by his wife, Eneida (nee Valdes) Matos; his son, Edward “Eddie” Matos and his wife, Maite; two grandchildren, Adrian and Maria Matos; one brother, Orlando Matos and three sisters, Myra Matos, Amparo Matos and Nivia Matos.

He is predeceased by his parents, Jose and Gloria (nee Garcia) Matos; and one brother, Eddie Matos.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 10:30 am from the funeral home. Entombment to follow at East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton. Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.

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