Obituary of John Paul Branco
John Paul Branco, 46, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025, in Lake Worth, Florida. Born on September 10, 1978, to Henrique and Maria Branco in Livingston, New Jersey, John spent his early years in Newark before his family relocated to North Plainfield when he was eight years old. He remained there until moving to Florida 19 years ago.
John was a graduate of North Plainfield High School and continued his education at Raritan Valley Community College. His professional life centered around the restaurant industry, where he held various roles over the years.
A man of deep faith, John was baptized and received his First Holy Communion at Our Lady of Fatima in Newark. After moving to North Plainfield, he was confirmed at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in North Plainfield.
John had a natural gift for making people laugh. Whether through sharing stories or telling jokes, his own laughter often set the tone, bringing joy to those around him. He had a passion for cooking, loved creating his own recipes, and was a self-proclaimed foodie. John was also a diehard Yankees fan and enjoyed playing golf in his free time. Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his three children.
John is survived by his beloved children, Jacob, Madison, and Carter Branco; his parents, Henrique and Maria Branco; and his siblings, Julia Coerper and her husband John, Henry Branco and his wife Rose, and Glorie Rasmusson and her husband, Todd. He also leaves behind his cherished nieces and nephews: Bryan, Vincent, Eva, Nicholas, Marc, Joseph, Alexa, Michael, Allison, and Davin; his godmother, Maria E. Branco; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
A visitation will be held on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069. This will be followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM at Blessed Sacrament Church, 1890 Washington Valley Road, Martinsville, NJ 08836.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, honoring John’s legacy of love and care for others.
John will be remembered for his humor, his passion for life, and the love he shared with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.
