Rafael Perez

In Loving Memory of Rafael Perez

Rafael Perez, 82, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on July 11, 1943, in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, Rafael lived a life rooted in love, family, and friendship. He worked as a glass tooler for more than 30 years, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.

Rafael enjoyed bowling and playing billiards with his best friends, Chuck and Kenny, affectionately known as the “Three Amigos.” He was an incredibly kind, lovable man whose warmth and sense of humor touched everyone he met. As the second oldest of six siblings, he cherished his family deeply. Three of his siblings preceded him in death.

Above all, Rafael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Iris Pomales; his daughters, Claribel Perez and Sara (Eddie) Bermudez; his stepdaughter, Madeline Pomales; his grandsons, Caleb Cruz(Ally), Jacob Mercado (Chelsee), and Jeremiah Torres(Joelle) ; two great-granddaughters, Abigail and Charlotte Cruz and two great-grandsons, Lucas and Jonah Mercado, his brothers, Juan Perez and Tito Perez, lifelong friend, Carmen Jimenez and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rafael Perez and Catalina Vega Vazquez, and his three sisters.

Rafael has now gone home to be with our Heavenly Father. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing he is at peace. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace

A Celebration of Rafael’s Life will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360. A private family viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m. Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, Rafael will be laid to rest in Siloam Cemetery.

Rafael will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched. His legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.