Enrique Guillermo Paniagua

April 20, 1981 - February 21, 2025
Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and raised in and around Nashua and Londonderry, New Hampshire, Enrique Guillermo Paniagua's life was defined by curiosity and a generous spirit. These traits shone through in his unwavering dedication to family and friends, drawing people to him throughout his life.
Enrique's passion for helping others led him to a career in the medical field. He pursued an Associate of Science Degree in Respiratory Care from Valencia College in Orlando, Florida, and achieved nationally accredited certifications as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic. His career at Reedy Creek Emergency Services, serving the iconic Walt Disney World properties, was more than a job; it was his calling. Enrique became a vital part of the firehouse community and would have gladly moved in permanently if he could.
Above all, Enrique cherished his family. He married the love of his life, Cherise N. Bessert-Paniagua, on March 20, 2024, in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by his family and friends, at the picturesque Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida. He spent countless joyful moments with his loved ones and friends, whom he embraced as family. His infectious enthusiasm for life was evident in everything he did, from cheering at Tampa Bay Buccaneers games and debating about the Boston Red Sox to enjoying late-night movie marathons.
Enrique's diverse interests included late breaking medical information, new technologies, gadgets, video games, and his pets. His insatiable curiosity and zest for life made every moment with him extraordinary. His inspiration extended beyond the medical emergencies he handled; it touched every aspect of his life, from firehouse camaraderie to joyous family gatherings.
Enrique passed away on February 21, 2025, in Davenport, Florida, after a brutal lifelong battle with Sickle Cell Disease. As we prepare to honor his memory at Kersey Funeral Home in Auburndale, Florida, we remember Enrique as a selfless and loving individual. His life, though shorter than we wished, was rich with love, loyalty, and dedication to helping others.
Enrique was preceded in death by his grandparents Fidelina "Filla" Tavarez-Quezada and Miguel "Tavarez" Tavarez; his beloved mother, Miladys Bowman-Tavarez; his stepfather, Glen Bowman; and a brother named Guillermo from whom he received his middle name. He is survived by his loving wife, Cherise N. Bessert-Paniagua; his brothers Jose R. Paniagua and Melvin F. Paniagua (Amanda); his nephew Gavin F. Paniagua; his adoring and doting aunts Maribel Tavarez-Quezada, Piedad Tavarez-Quezada, Mercedes Tavarez-Quezada, Gloria "La Negra" Olivo-Tavarez, Magalys Minaya-Tavarez, and Claribel Marte-Tavarez; his cherished cousins Pamela Gablenz-Tavarez, Edward L. Vargas, and Alicia Bautista-Olivo; as well as Cherise's family: Terry Bessert, father-in-law; Sherri Jo Bessert, mother-in-law; Ryan Bessert, brother-in-law (Briana); Francesca "Frankie" Bessert, niece; Jacob Bessert, nephew; Amelia Bessert, niece; and Ava Bessert, niece; along with many many more deeply treasured family members.
In lieu of flowers, Enrique's family kindly requests donations to Sickle Cell Medical Advocacy, Inc., an organization that provided immense support to him and Cherise. The organization was founded in Orlando by Dr. Simone Eastman Uwan who is also a sickle cell patient. There are two ways to donate:
via Zelle (no transaction cost to nonprofits): look up give@sicklecellmedicaladvocacy.org
-or-
via PayPal (some transaction cost to nonprofits)
http://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/4537944
Enrique's legacy is one of inspiration, kindness, and curiosity. His light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched, reminding us of the profound impact one person can have.