Jose Reinaldo Serpa Velazquez Sr.

New Bedford - Jose Reinaldo Serpa Velazquez Sr., age 59, passed away on Friday, January 29, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital after a 6-week battle with Covid-19.

Jose is survived by his loving wife, Ana Ogando de Serpa, his mother, Minerva Velazquez, his sister, Enith Serpa, his five children: Mervaliz Serpa, Jose R. Serpa Jr., Jose L. Serpa, Johan M. Serpa, and Faith A. Serpa. He will also leave behind his seven grandchildren, one great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.

Jose was born on September 28, 1961 in Manati, Puerto Rico to the late Bernardo Serpa and Minerva Velazquez. Jose was an army veteran who served in the U.S. Army at the age of 16, from December 25, 1977 through July 10, 2004. He was an army specialist, and his primary specialty was Combat Engineer. His Last duty assignment and Major command was in the 130th Engineer Battalion. During his years of service before being honorably discharged, he received an Army Commendation medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Humanitarian Service medal (2nd Award), and an Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon.

Jose was well known for his faith and devotion to God. He was the general secretary at the Pentecostal church he was a member of, Christian Revival Temple in New Bedford, Ma. He served as a counselor to many local ministries and was also an ordained minister. On Saturdays, he spent the mornings at St. Luke’s Hospital and served as a chaplain.

Jose was very educated in theological studies. He completed a four-year degree in June 2012 at the Assemblies of God Bible Institute, The Gethsemane Branch in New Bedford, Ma. After graduating, he became a teacher at that Institute in September of 2012. He then went on to Dayspring Theological University where he Completed a bachelor’s degree in Theology on August 29, 2020 and was currently in the process of completing his master’s degree.

Jose married his wife Ana on December 19, 2012 in the Dominican Republic and he will always be remembered for how much he loved her and was devoted to her. He will also be remembered by his contagious smile, his knowledgeable advice, and his integrity. He was the perfect example of someone who lived by what they preached. He was full of life, love, immeasurable wisdom, and most importantly, faith. He was a wonderful husband, loving father, and amazing friend. He will be missed by many.

Jose’s visiting hours will be held on Friday evening, February 5, 2021 from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. at Perry Funeral Home. His funeral will be held Saturday morning in the funeral home, beginning at 9:00 A.M. with a service to take place at 10:00 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in Rural Cemetery.

All attendees are required by current mandated restrictions to wear a face covering at all times, to social distance 6 feet and to please refrain from any close physical contact. Attendance in the funeral home will be limited in order to meet the mandated capacity restrictions and could result with a wait time outside of the funeral home. Attendance at the cemetery will also be limited to meet capacity restrictions. Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation during this time.

Arrangements are placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St. New Bedford, MA 02740. Please see our website: www.perryfuneral.com for condolences.