JAIME GALARZA, JR.

GALARZA, Jaime, Jr. Boston Fire Dept. & Musician Taunton - Jaime Galarza had a heart for service, a soul for music, and an unlimited capacity for love of a community of friends and family that reached from his birthplace of Harlem to the Taunton home he built with his beloved wife Regina. Jaime's beautiful life journey of 54 years was one of honor, duty, devotion, and love; and will be celebrated at services on Thursday, November 15 at 11am at Christ Community Church in Taunton.

Born in Harlem on June 19, 1964, Jaime Galarza, Jr. was the eldest son of Leticia Flores and Jaime Galarza. His proud Puerto Rican heritage helped define his character with a deep devotion to faith, family, and community. At an early age, Jaime's gifts as mentor and role model were developed through loving relationships with sister Melissa, brother David, and nephew Ezequiel.

Boston became home in 1977, as Jaime's family moved from Yankee territory to the heart of Red Sox nation. Here, Jaime's insatiable love of learning and unbounded curiosity flourished in high school, as did his athletic prowess. Naturally gifted, Jaime excelled across three sports; and as ROTC leader. Those leadership experiences - on the field and in ROTC -- would serve as catalyst for a lifetime of service.

To Jaime, service to a cause greater than self was the most noble calling one could pursue. For 31 years, he devoted himself fully as a member of the Boston Fire Department. First at Engine 53 and later as a member of Hazmat Special Operations and the arson unit, Jaime embraced the firefighters' fierce loyalty of brotherhood and their highest standards of honor. He pursued with excellence the opportunity to serve and protect his community. Three decades of friendships forged in times of greatest challenge and risk - and over firehouse meals and laughter -- were cherished by Jaime.

Jaime was uniquely gifted as an artist and balanced the rigor as first responder with the serenity and soulfulness of his music. For 21 years, Jaime played percussion and featured vocals as a member of eye2eye, a celebrated ensemble that created their own special magic at events throughout New England. Over thousands of miles and millions of notes, Jaime's bandmates became family and eye2eye's audiences, a cherished place to share his passion for music.

Leadership, service, and artistry were all facets of Jaime's wonderful life. But, there was no greater devotion or achievement than the extraordinary bond Jaime shared with his wife Regina. Fittingly, they met in church. That moment of grace led to fifteen years of friendship, partnership, and marriage radiant in love and abundant in laughter, adventure, music, and abiding faith. Jaime's greatest source of pride was their children -- Ian, Marina, Corey, Miguel -- and his deepest joy and most hearty laugh was as Pap? to grandchildren Leia, Lane, Jackson, and Elijah. Jaime's unconditional love endures and will continue to guide and inspire his family. ("google it!")

The Galarza family would like to express our gratitude and love to the community whose faith, friendship, and support has sustained us and whose memories of Jaime bring greatest comfort. We offer special gratitude to the exceptional team of doctors, nurses, and caretakers at Dana Farber; Joseph E. Finn, Boston Fire Commissioner; Rich Paris, President, Boston Fire Local 718; the faith leaders and community at Christ Community Church; and the Paulo and Galarza families. Please omit flowers, and in their place, we ask that you perform acts of kindness.

Friends and family are invited to reflect and remember Jaime at a Celebration of Life, Thursday, November 15, 2018 at 11:00 am, Christ Community Church, 41 Stevens Street, Taunton, Massachusetts. Casual attire is encouraged.

Arrangements entrusted to Crapo - Hathaway Funeral Home, TAUNTON.

To light a memorial candle, sign the online guestbook or for church directions, please visit www.hathawayfunerals.com or call 508-822-3318.