Justino Diaz-Benitez of Kissimmee, Florida, formerly of Vineland, NJ, has departed to be with the
Lord on Sunday, January 9, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family. Justino was born in
Pinar del Rio, Cuba where he completed his education as a physical education teacher. In 1994, Justino left Cuba aboard a self-constructed raft in search of freedom. After spending 5 days at sea, he was picked up by the US Coast Guard and sent to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where he would spend a year in the refugee camp before being sent to the United States.

His efforts eventually brought him to Vineland, NJ. There he worked for the City of Vineland Road Department as a heavy truck driver for over 20 years until his retirement in 2017.

Justino enjoyed traveling, cooking, gardening, casinos, and music. He loved to socialize with everyone. He was such a loving, kind, fun, and gentle soul that will deeply be missed by all those who knew him.

He leaves behind his wife of 25 years Lourdes Diaz, their daughters Jessica Saad (Magued) and Desiree Young (Derres), and grandchildren Sophia Saad, Luke Saad, and Avaleena Young. He is also survived by his children in Cuba, Dania Diaz, Jusney Diaz, and Jasmany Diaz; his sisters Isora Gort-Diaz of Pinar del Rio, Cuba, and Ida Diaz-Benitez of Madrid, Spain; 7 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Justino is pre-deceased by his father Pablo Diaz, mother Dolores Diaz-Benitez, and brother Juan Diaz-Benitez.

The family of Justino Diaz-Benitez invites you to leave a message of condolence on the Tribute Wall created in his loving memory.