Jose Luis Ruiz-Duarte

With heavy hearts, we remember the life of José Luis Ruiz Duarte, who departed this world on April 17, 2026, at the age of 67, in Warner Robins, Georgia. A funeral service in honor of his life will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Iglesia Cristiana Remanso de Paz, located at 1715 Elberta Road, Warner Robins, Georgia 31093. Family and friends are warmly invited to join us.

Born on October 26, 1958, in El Tigre, Anzoátegui, Venezuela. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and commitment to his family. José stood as a pillar in his family, married to his beloved wife of 48 years, María Ruiz. Together they built a family full of love alongside their children: José Luis Ruiz and his wife María Acosta; Marherys Ruiz, Maryineth Ruiz and her husband, Miguel Ángel Chacón, and Marlibeth Ruiz.

The joy of his life was also reflected in his grandchildren: Luis Carlos, Luis Fabiano, Camilo, José Alejandro, Priss, Nicole, Josué, Nickolas, Valeria and Valeska Chacón, and in his only great-granddaughter, Kendall, who filled his days with pride, tenderness, and happiness.

Today we remember him as a man who did not go unnoticed in life, because he left his essence in every person who had the privilege of knowing him. A man of the countryside, a lover of nature and of the peace that only the outdoors can provide. Wise, one of those who teach more through their actions than their words.

He was a disciplined, brave, strong, and incredible man, who held no grudges, who helped others without expecting anything in return, deeply wise, and who always put his family above himself. He was also a great son who honored his parents until the end, and a good brother, friend, and uncle, leaving marks of love and respect in each of those roles.

He was a protective father, always attentive, always present… the kind who never rests because he feels his family is his greatest responsibility. Organized, hardworking, and a dreamer—a man of goals and constant effort, who built not only with his hands, but also with his example.

In his professional life, he was a respected contractor and operations manager, known for his honesty, kindness, and loyalty. His voice was unmistakable: “Te has comunicado con José Luis Ruiz Duarte, de Construcciones Ruiz Duarte…” and with that same firmness and confidence, he faced life.

He had a unique way of loving. When a grandchild was born, he would get nervous or even seem upset… but deep down, that was his way of showing how much they meant to him. He always had a joke ready, a witty remark, a phrase that would bring smiles—like when he would say, “¿Activaron el DS?” every time something was forgotten.

He loved to laugh, to enjoy the simple things, like watching El Chavo del 8, and to spread his joy to everyone around him. And with his grandchildren, he left a very special mark. He gave each one a nickname, a unique way of making them feel loved and special: “tres dedos,” “la niña que canta y baila,” “el recojito,” “la gata,” “Primor,” “Wilito,” “Kendall Leonor”… because his love always found ways to name itself.

Those who knew him also bear witness to the man he was. For many, he was not only a friend or a relative, but a source of support, a guide, even a second father. He was someone who deeply impacted the lives of others, leaving a mark that will remain forever.

His love story with our mother was a reflection of true love, the kind that seems out of a movie. An unconditional love, beyond everything, where they were life partners, confidants, and friends. The love of our viejitos was, without a doubt, one of the purest and most beautiful we have ever known.

José was preceded in death by his parents, José Ruiz and María Duarte; his brother, Robert Ruiz; and his daughter, Lizkeyda Ruiz. Although today we deeply mourn his passing, we are grateful for the cherished memories he left us.

He had a phrase that said it all: “Papá se encargó”, Dad’s got it.

And that’s exactly how he lived… taking care of everything, resolving, protecting, being there.

Today, his absence hurts… but his story, his love, and his way of being will live on forever within us. José Luis Ruiz Duarte did not leave us… he remains in every memory, in every laugh, and in every lesson he left us.

Please sign the online registry and leave a personal condolence for the family.

Heritage Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory has the honor of being entrusted with the arrangements.