Juan Mercado Rivera, born on June 18, 1959, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico.

Juan was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, great-grandfather, and loyal friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone who knew him. For 38 beautiful years, he shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Maria Sanchez-Santana, building a life centered around family, friendship, and unwavering love.

He leaves behind his cherished daughter, Jacqueline Rivera Podolla (40) of Jersey City, New Jersey. Juan was a proud grandfather to Jaliyah Andrade (16) and Aysinae Diggs (23), and a loving great-grandfather to Anylah Blanks, who brought him immense joy and pride.

Juan will also be deeply missed by his dear friends Juan Carlo, Carlos Medina, and Louise Perez, along with many other friends and loved ones whose lives he enriched throughout the years.

Juan’s memory will live on through the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the countless lives he touched. His family and friends will forever hold him in their hearts.

May he rest in eternal peace.