Watchung, NJ – Americo Garcia, a long-standing member of the Portuguese-American community, passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey. He was 77 years old.
Born in Fundao, Viana do Castelo, Portugal, Americo Garcia emigrated to the United States from France and Canada half a century ago. He initially settled in the Ironbound section of Newark and Rahway before moving to Watchung 18 years ago.
Throughout his life, Americo was a prominent figure in his community. He was the owner of Lisbon Agency in Newark and was actively involved in various Portuguese cultural organizations, including the Academia do Bacalhau de New Jersey, Centro Cultural Os Serranos, and the Portuguese Credit Union. He was also instrumental in opening the BPI Bank branches in New Jersey, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing services for the Portuguese community.
Americo’s influence extended beyond New Jersey. He was one of the first Portuguese families to establish a home in Palm Coast, Florida, where he helped found the Portuguese Club of Palm Coast, further promoting Portuguese culture and community spirit.
Americo leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Alzira Correira (nee Leitao) Garcia, and their daughters, Carla Garcia Ribeiro and Diana Garcia Carvalheiro, along with his cherished grandchildren, Sara, Gabriel, Sofia, and Bella. His family was his greatest pride, and his devotion to them was evident in all aspects of his life.
A wake will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 5-8 PM, followed by a funeral service on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Buyus Funeral Home in Newark. A Funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Elizabeth.
The community has expressed their condolences on social media, mourning the loss of Americo Garcia. Michael Ribeiro shared, "With sadness and pain I would like to share that my Father in Law Americo Garcia passed. We are all heartbroken!" Fil Portela-DaCosta commented, "I’m so sorry for the loss. Give Carla and the girls my condolences." Sandy Marujo-Mota added, "I am so sorry for your loss! May he RIP," reflecting the shared grief and support from friends and family.
Americo Garcia will be remembered for his contributions to his community, his commitment to his cultural roots, and the love he shared with his family. His legacy continues to live on through the many lives he touched.