Jose Luis Balzac

Though the name given to him at birth was José, those who knew and loved him called him Joey.
Joey was a lifelong Bronx resident who grew up and spent his entire life in the borough he loved. He was a proud graduate of Stevenson High School and went on to work as a security guard, later concluding his career working in the Psychiatric Emergency Department at North Central Bronx Hospital.
In 2012, Joey married the love of his life, Altagracia Doris Portorreal, and from that moment, his life took on new meaning. Those who knew him remember his incredible generosity and thoughtfulness - he was always ready to lend a helping hand to those he cared about.
Though Joey had no children of his own, his wife's family and grandchildren loved him as a father and grandfather. He may not have been a dad, but he was fully equipped with dad jokes, filling every gathering with laughter and love. His church family also shared many joyful moments with him, cherishing his warmth and good humor.
Joey was an active member of his tenants association and never hesitated to stand up for what he believed was right. Even when he began to lose his vision in 2016 and was declared legally blind in 2018, Joey refused to let that define or limit him. Instead, he embraced technology - learning about digital tools and exploring the growing power of artificial intelligence - to continue living life to the fullest. He loved to travel and enjoyed eating good food. He loved to dance and was learning bachata in the months before his passing. He loved taking pictures and documenting his life with selfies.
A curious mind and lifelong learner, Joey developed a strong interest in natural healing techniques and remedies. He shared his discoveries and insights with others through his social media platforms under the name Visionary José.
Above all, Joey was deeply devoted to his family and friends. His loved ones will forever remember his warm smile, kind heart, and the love he so freely gave. His spirit, resilience, and compassion will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be forever in our hearts.
In addition to the services at Williams Funeral Home, please join us for the Burial Ceremony on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 1:00pm at the Woolworth Chapel located at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Obituario de José "Joey" Balzac.
Aunque su nombre de nacimiento era José, quienes lo conocieron y amaron lo llamaban Joey.
Joey vivió toda su vida en el Bronx, el barrio que tanto amaba. Se graduó con orgullo de la preparatoria Stevenson y trabajó como guardia de seguridad, culminando su carrera en el Departamento de Emergencias Psiquiátricas del Hospital North Central Bronx.
En 2012, Joey se casó con el amor de su vida, Altagracia Doris Portorreal, y desde ese momento, su vida cobró un nuevo significado. Quienes lo conocieron recuerdan su increíble generosidad y consideración; siempre estaba dispuesto a ayudar a quienes le importaban.
Aunque Joey no tuvo hijos, la familia de su esposa y sus nietos lo amaban como a un padre y abuelo. Quizás no fue padre, pero tenía un sinfín de chistes malos, llenando cada reunión de risas y cariño. Su comunidad parroquial también compartió muchos momentos felices con él, apreciando su calidez y buen humor.
Joey era un miembro activo de su asociación de vecinos y nunca dudó en defender lo que creía justo. Incluso cuando comenzó a perder la vista en 2016 y fue declarado legalmente ciego en 2018, Joey se negó a que eso lo definiera o lo limitara. En cambio, adoptó la tecnología -aprendiendo sobre herramientas digitales y explorando el creciente poder de la inteligencia artificial- para seguir viviendo la vida al máximo. Le encantaba viajar y disfrutar de la buena comida. Le encantaba bailar y estaba aprendiendo bachata en los meses previos a su fallecimiento. Le encantaba tomar fotos y documentar su vida con selfies.
De mente curiosa y con una sed insaciable de aprendizaje, Joey desarrolló un gran interés en las técnicas y remedios naturales. Compartió sus descubrimientos y reflexiones con los demás a través de sus redes sociales bajo el nombre de Visionario José.
Sobre todo, Joey estaba profundamente dedicado a su familia y amigos. Sus seres queridos siempre recordarán su cálida sonrisa, su bondad y el amor que tan generosamente brindó. Su espíritu, resiliencia y compasión seguirán inspirando a todos los que tuvieron la fortuna de conocerlo. Siempre estará en nuestros corazones.
Además de los servicios en la Funeraria Williams, por favor acompáñenos a la Ceremonia de Entierro el Viernes 7 de Noviembre de 2025 a la 1:00 p.m. en la Capilla Woolworth ubicada en el Cementerio Woodlawn.