Pedro "Pete" Garcia, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce, on December 15, 2019, Pedro (Pete) Garcia Jr., 70, passed peacefully at home with his beloved wife of 48 years, Sherry.

Pete was predeceased by his parents, Pedro and Emma and brothers Fred and Bob.  He is father to three cherished daughters, Laurie (Dave) Bilyeu, Missy Garcia, Lea (Tom) Pagliughi, who will all miss him dearly.  His grandchildren, Brian Laul Jr., Crystal Laul, Reese Bilyeu, Jason Frazier, Ryan Frazier, Shawn Bilyeu and great-granddaughter, Isabella Alexander, will carry his legacy in their hearts.  His sisters, Linda Garcia and Carol Konrath, will remember him always, as well as his nephews and nieces.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Pete was an avid White Sox and Bears fan.  As a young man, Pete discovered his talent and love for music.  As a Beatles fan, their music became a soundtrack for his life, as he felt his life’s journey mirrored theirs.

After graduating from Lane Technical Preparatory High School, Pete served honorably in the US Army, in Cambodia, during the Vietnam War. There was rarely a time Pete could be seen without an American flag on his t-shirt, displaying his love of America.

After he returned from Vietnam, Pete met his other half at a bus stop, in Wichita Falls, TX.  He soon after resumed his long career with Illinois Bell, then AT&T.  In 1985, the family relocated to New Jersey, where he and Sherry lived until 2017, when they both fully retired and moved to Jacksonville, Florida.  His unwavering commitment to be the best husband and father he could be will forever be remembered as his most endearing quality by those who knew and loved him.

He passed down his love of music to his daughters, who in turn gave that gift to their children.  Pete’s friends, who are numerous and loyal, will remember him fondly in their stories and memories.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the Jacksonville, Florida area.  Details will be announced at a later date.