HORTENSE — Mr. Francisco “Panchi” Velez-Clavijo, 80, passed away Friday, July 17, 2026, at his residence in Hortense following an extended illness.
Velez-Clavijo was born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, to the late Francisco Velez and Maria De Belen Clavijo. He honora bly served in the United States Army as a combat veteran during the Vietnam War and worked in the aircraft engine industry as an induction heating engineer with NCUR of New Jersey.
He was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Waycross, where he faithfully served in a variety of ministries. Velez-Clavijo was a Eucharistic Minister and was the recipient of the Bishop Gartland Recognition of Service, an award presented by the Catholic Diocese of Savannah in recognition of dedicated service to the Church.
Velez-Clavij
Velez-Clavijo is survived by his wife, Ana Velez of Hortense; two sons, Francisco A. Velez, Jr., and Jesus H. Velez; four grandchildren, Jazzalyn Velez, Natasha Velez, Tatianna Velez, and Jolieena Velez; three sisters, Myrian Velez, Sylvia Velez and Mela Velez; two brothers, Angel Velez and Jose Velez; an aunt, Aida Velez; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Music Funeral Home from 5 p.m.-7p.m.
Burial will be held August 3, 2026, at Puerto Rico National Cemetery in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.
Music Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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