Juana Mercado

On September 1, 2023, we lost our mother, Juana Mercado. She fought with courage, faith and strength for 10 years.

Juana Mercado was born in Cayey, Puerto Rico on December 13, 1943, to Crispulo Mercado and Felicita Lopez. She lived in Puerto Rico with her 10 siblings. 

Juana attended school in Puerto Rico.  After her education, she embarked on a new journey to NJ in a community that was diverse with culture she knew very well. She met people from all walks of life, who became friends but more so family. Juana worked in many companies within the New Brunswick area; however, her favorite employer was Pressman Toy Company where she served as manager of machine operators until 1997.

Juana enjoyed dancing, walks in the park and music by Wifredo Vargas, Ana Gabriel and Vicente Fernandez. She enjoyed her weekends spending time with family and friends drinking a glass of wine while looking out of the balcony.

Juana’s favorite hobby was spending time in the kitchen cooking for family and friends. Her famous saying was “come, come porque voy a cerrar la cocina pronto” (“eat, eat, I’m about to close down the kitchen soon”).  Her famous food was Pollo Guisado con Arroz Blanco, Aguacate y Amarillo, y ensalada. She was known  to feed anyone in the community that would come visit.

Juana had one pet, and when I tell you that no one could touch her Precious Maltese dog. She would make special chicken (yes chicken) and white rice just for her little precious.

Juana was a woman of high standards and well respected in her community. She was strong-minded and kindhearted; but more than anything her pride was her seven children. She was very close with her grandchildren especially Sunaii whom was her afterschool Dunkin donuts partner.

Juana is predeceased by her: parents, Cripulos and Felicita; daughter, Marilyn; six siblings, Carmen, Thomas (Rufo), Socorro (Socki), Rafael (Papo), Miguel, Maria and her lifetime partner and friend, our dad, Jimmy.

Juana is survived by her: six children, Jose Medina (Edna Otero), Migdalia Medina, Miguel Rivera, Evelyn Medina, Roberto Rivera, and Maria Medina; siblings, Adelaida (Victor Tirado),  Victoria (Vigio), Carmelo (Tito),Oscar Mercado (Raquel); grandchildren, Ramon Jr., Alexis, Ezekiel, Madeline Medina, and Sunaii Marilyn James; great-grandchildren, Eric Medina, Kaya ,Xavier, Nyah, and Alania, Solares; Godson, Jose Tito Martinez and comai Maria (Meri)Martinez.

She is also survived by loving friends including Magie, Cola, Ruby, Lori and many more.

Sorrowfully submitted,

The family.