Obituary of Juan D. Pacheco, Jr.

Juan D. Pacheco, Jr. of Columbia, SC passed away on October 28, 2023. He was 75 years old.

He was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on September 5, 1948. He joined the Army in 1968, devoting over twenty years of service and commitment to his country. Most notably of his Army career were his two tours he served in Vietnam. Juan’s military accolades include a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Campaign Medal, a Sharpshooter Badge, and a Good Conduct Medal.

He married the love of his life, Janie Hernandez on January 29, 1974, and they spent almost 50 years full of love together. He enjoyed life to the fullest. His grandchildren were his heart and he loved to spend time with them.

He enjoyed dancing, music, and dominos. His favorite movie was The Magnificent Seven (1960).  

Juan is survived by his loving wife, Janie H. Pacheco; sister, Graciela Torres; brother, Jose Raul Pacheco; sons, Carlos Pacheco and Rudy Sapata; daughters, Missy Hernandez, Sheila Winter (David), Maria Pacheco (Philip), and Michelle Jones (Chris); grandchildren, Sandra, Selena, Anthony, Logan, Tristian, MaKayla, Wyatt, Chelsea, Elijah, Justin, Jean, and Carlos; and fifteen great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Consuelo Vazquez Rivers and Juan Domingo Pacheco, Sr. and brother, Edison Marrero Vasquez.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Veteran’s Affairs.

A visitation for family and friends will be Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 5pm until 7pm, at the Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209.  A Funeral with full military honors will be held Monday, November 6, 2023 at Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial park, with burial to follow.