Jose Bautista

Master Chief Petty Officer Jose Pabalan Bautista, US Navy (Retired), 70, of Destin passed away peacefully on Friday, August 13, 2021, at his home.

Jose was predeceased by his parents Juan and Josefina Bautista, and his eldest sister, Carmen Onofre.  He is survived by his wife, Bella Bautista; his sisters in the Philippines, Zenaida Meneses, Leticia Santos, and Corazon Mallari; his two daughters and sons-in-law, Jocelyn and Enrique Reyna, and Joanne and Erek Biddle; three grandchildren, Ayiana, Erek Jr., and Elena Grace; and loving family around the world who will miss Jose dearly.

Born on July 31, 1951, in Balas Mexico Pampanga, Philippines, Jose “Joey” was the youngest of five children and the only son born to Juan and Josefina.  Jose was never a stranger to hard work. From an early age, he worked the family farm with his Uncle Moises, but through his mother’s inspiration, Jose realized that his dreams went well beyond the rice plantations of his homeland. Upon completing his Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Commerce at Holy Angel University in Angeles City, Jose enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Corrections Specialist.  This leap of faith carried him across the seas and back; a momentous journey, not only for his young family but for the relatives he left back home.

Jose lived a life of service for family and country. He honorably served 30 years active duty from 1974 – 2004.  During this time, he was assigned to the USS Mahan DLG-11, USS Kitty Hawk CV-63, USS Ranger CV-61, USS Tarawa LHA-1, USS Flint AE-32, and the USS Belleau Wood LHA-3.  Jose was also at various Naval Stations to include San Diego CA, Subic Bay Philippines, Naval Station Security Detachment Treasure Island San Francisco CA, Commander Fleet Activity Sasebo Japan, Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic, and Center for Anti-Terrorism & Navy Security Forces, Norfolk, VA.  Jose was a jack of all trades.  After serving in the military, he worked as a contractor, and the government continuing to do what he loves. 

For those who knew Jose, they would describe his genuine heart and giving spirit.  His early farming years left a lasting impression as his passion for gardening was visible for all to see now in his garden home in Destin, and in Virginia Beach, VA.  His pearly white smile was inviting as he’d share stories of what he’s discovered in planting or traveling.  Jose is loved so much by his grandchildren, family, and friends.  There’s not one person he has not made an impact in their life at some point and in one way or another.  We are heartbroken for our loss, but rejoice in his restoration to healing and no longer suffer in his pain.  He was a man of faith and we thank God for taking him home so he may rest easy.

Funeral services will be held this Friday, August 20, 2021 between 1 – 3 p.m. at the McLaughlin Mortuary, 17 Chestnut Ave SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.  Viewing will start at 1 p.m.  Service to follow at 2 p.m. and Honor Guard to conclude the service.  For those who are unable to attend the service, Video Live stream will be available beginning 1 – 3 p.m. and will be shared through the McLaughlin Mortuary website and the family’s Facebook page.  

https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1629235072131353

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