Joe M. Bonilla

TAMPA – Joe Manuel Bonilla, 66, of Tampa, Fla., entered eternal life on April 6, 2025. A devoted son, brother, father, grandfather, nephew, cousin, and great-grandfather, he was cherished by all who loved and knew him.

Born September 5, 1958, in Brooklyn, N.Y. to the late Jose and Carmen Bonilla, who both immigrated to New York from Puerto Rico, he was their first son. A lover of music and dance, a student of the martial arts, and all of what life could bring, Joe followed the beat of his own drum. An alumnus of William O. Grady High School (also in Brooklyn), Joe was driven to hard work – working in many fields (even a stint as an armored truck driver for Brink’s), including many years working in the funeral services industry, including working security at Green-Wood Cemetery, and before retirement, at South Brooklyn Casket Company. After retirement, he moved to Tampa to be closer to his family.

He will be remembered by all who loved him as a caring father who wanted the best for children, a brother and a son who was committed to ensuring memories wouldn’t fade, a cousin and a friend who made life more vibrant, and a grandfather who was both nurturing and tough when he needed to be.

Predeceased by his parents and his brother Bobby Bonilla, Joe is survived by his children - daughter Jeannie Rivera (Robert), son Joe Bonilla, daughter Maxene Bonilla Brown (Skyler); his grandchildren R.J., Raven, Anastasia, Robert, Brooklyn, and Shia; and his great-grandchildren Arielle and Romeo.

All are invited to visit with Joe’s family on Thursday, April 24 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Florida Mortuary Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 4601 North Nebraska Avenue, Tampa, FL 33603. During visitation hours, there will be a service at 4 p.m.