It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jesus “Jay” Aponte Sr., age 71 of Vineland, often known as “PJ”, a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend, on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 in Cooper Medical Center, Camden.

Jay was born in New York on April 8, 1955 to Domingo Aponte Sr and Josefa (Burgos) Aponte and came to Vineland, New Jersey during his teenage years, where he would go on to build a beautiful life surrounded by family, friends, and a community that loved him dearly.

Jay dedicated an incredible 40 years to Progresso Foods Inc., later General Mills, where he worked faithfully and proudly until his retirement as a Team Leader Supervisor. His strong work ethic, dedication, and genuine character were qualities that followed him throughout every part of his life.

Above all, Jay was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Family meant everything to him. He was the kind of person who was simply genuine—warm, caring, and always himself. He had a way of making people feel comfortable and loved, and it was impossible not to love him in return. His presence brought a sense of kindness and familiarity that will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

Jay enjoyed the simple things in life and treasured the time he spent with the people he loved most. He was a proud fan of the New York Giants and the New York Yankees, and he could often be found watching his favorite teams, outside doing his yard work or finding a project to learn and complete. But his greatest joy was spending time with his family and creating memories that they will carry with them forever.

Jay leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and family. Though his absence leaves an unimaginable emptiness, the love he gave so freely will continue to live on through his loving wife Sonia M. (Colon) Aponte of Vineland. His children Jesus “JJ” Aponte Jr (Sofija), Selena Delgado, Adrian “A Jay” Aponte (Alysia) and Tiara Santiago (Orlando). Grandchildren Tiffany Padilla (Randolfo), Angelina, Jonathan, Joshua Aponte, Lauren, Madison Jaycob Delgado, Ari, Avianna Aponte, and Olaia Santiago. Great-Grandchildren Jacob and Ava Padilla. Siblings Rafael Aponte Sr (Felipa), Justina Aponte and Domingo Aponte Jr., along with many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Domingo Aponte Sr. and Josefa (Burgos) Aponte and his siblings Jose Aponte Sr, Enilda Santos, Alphonso Aponte and Margarita Moran.

He will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the way he made others feel—loved, welcomed, and cared for.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Jay’s life during his viewing on Tuesday, September 8th, 2026 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Divine Mercy Parish 23 W. Chestnut Ave. Vineland. Funeral Mass will begin at 12:00 pm, with his burial to follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Vineland.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts. It is in the request of the family that in Lieu of flowers please make donations to Divine Mercy Parish. 

Please visit www.wbfuneralhome.com to send online condolences and tributes to the family.

Arrangements are by the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.