Joe Diaz, Jr.

In Loving Memory of Joe Diaz Jr.

Joe Diaz Jr., 70, of Monterey, California, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, after a year-long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family in his final moments.

Joe was born on October 20, 1954, in Seoul, South Korea, to Oksoon Diaz and Joe Diaz Sr. He moved to the United States at a young age and grew up and lived in the Monterey area. A proud graduate of Monterey High School’s Class of 1972, Joe was a determined and entrepreneurial spirit who went on to own and operate a successful staffing company for over 25 years. His leadership and work ethic left a lasting mark on the industry and on all those fortunate enough to work with him. Earlier in life, he worked for many years at Men’s Wearhouse, where he developed his sharp sense of style. Joe especially loved a tailored suit and often said, “If you look good, you feel good.” He truly enjoyed helping others look their best, whether by offering style advice or making sure someone was dressed just right for the occasion.

Joe shared nearly 50 years of life with his wife, Maria Diaz, including 39 years of marriage. Their decades together were filled with quiet routines and simple joys, like weekend visits to Lover’s Point and packed lunches with special treats. Joe found the greatest joy in his family. He was a devoted father to Diana Diaz and Cassandra Yi, and welcomed his son-in-law, Dan Yi, as his own son. He shared a rare and special connection with his twin brother Jack Diaz, and remained close to his brothers Johnny Diaz and Intae Diaz.

Being the life of the party wasn’t something Joe tried to be it was just who he was. Joe had a gift for bringing people together. His love was most often expressed through food. A master of the grill, he was known for his unforgettable BBQs, where friends and family gathered not just to eat, but to feel cherished and cared for. His passion for cooking was an extension of the way he lived: with generosity, warmth, and quiet but profound strength. And no matter the time of day, he made sure there was always music playing through the house, often loud, always joyful, as his way of setting the tone and making every moment feel a little more alive.

Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Guadalupe Diaz, and his parents, Oksoon Diaz and Joe Diaz Sr., whose values he carried forward every day. He is survived by his loving wife, Maria; his daughters Diana and Cassandra, and son-in-law Dan; his brothers Jack, Johnny, and Intae; and a wide circle of extended family, friends, and community members whose lives he touched.

 A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Carmel Mission, officiated by Father Paul Murphy. Joe loved to dress well and believed everyone should do the same. To honor that, guests are respectfully requested to wear Sunday best attire; kindly refrain from wearing black.

The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to Mission Mortuary for their compassionate guidance, and extend special gratitude to Salinas Valley Medical Center,

Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, and Stanford Medical for their exceptional care during Joe`s Illness.