Jesus M. Lopez

Jesus M. Lopez, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, was born on July 29, 1935, in Puerto Rico. In the early 1980s, he moved his family to Waterbury, Connecticut, where he continued to build a life filled with purpose, creativity, and love. On May 21, 2026, he entered Heaven peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
Jesus married the love of his life, Minerva Correa de Lopez, on May 26, 1962, in Puerto Rico. Together they owned and operated a successful bakery while Jesus pursued his many passions and professional endeavors. As a world traveler and tour guide, he gathered knowledge and experiences that helped inspire one of his most important literary works, the biography of Antonio Paoli, El León de Ponce.
In addition to being an accomplished author, Jesus wrote for numerous magazines throughout the world. Earlier in his career, he served as a Sales Coordinator for Crown Zellerbach Paper Company in San Francisco. Throughout his life, he was also a gifted tenor who shared his voice at weddings, funerals, and special events. His talents extended far beyond music. He was an opera historian, investigator, and critic; a linguist who spoke seven languages; and a respected lecturer who conducted conferences throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. These accomplishments represent only a small glimpse of his many gifts and interests.
Jesus remained sharp-minded and intellectually curious throughout his life. He was kind, funny, sociable, and deeply loved by those who knew him. In his free time, he enjoyed painting, building castles and miniature wooden houses, and expressing his creativity in countless ways. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family.
Jesus is survived by his three children and their families: Maria DeVico-Ahmadi (Angelo), Martin Lopez (Teresa), and Floragnes Ziegler (Dustin). He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Ahmad Ahmadi (Lauren), John Santiago (Heather), Arman Ahmadi (Melissa), Johnell Santiago (Charen), Rey Lopez, Ashley Lopez (Miguel), Ariana Rahei and Thomas Lopez; as well as ten great-grandchildren: Jon S., Gabriella S., Johnell S., Everly A., Leila A., Zoey A., Isabel A., Alayna S., and two precious great-grandchildren expected soon, Analia F. and Alis A.
He is also survived by his sister, Milagros R. Erbs, and her husband, William, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Jesus was predeceased by his beloved wife, Minerva Correa de Lopez; his parents, Jesus Lopez and Rosa H. Lopez; and his brothers, Jose Reynaldo “Rey” Lopez and Luis R. Lopez.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We take comfort in knowing that he and our mother are together once again, watching over us and blessing us each day. Look for the signs.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all of the family members, friends, caregivers, nurses, aides, and agencies who supported and cared for Jesus throughout the past several months—and for some, many years. A special thank you to Gury, Leslie, and Luis for their compassion and dedication.
In accordance with his wishes, no calling hours or wake will be held. Jesus was cremated, and a Mass celebrating his life will be held on Thursday, June 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Church 309 South Main Street, Waterbury, CT.
At a later date, a private family service will be held for his interment at St. Peter’s Mausoleum in Torrington, Connecticut, where he will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, parents, and brothers.