Jose Gabriel Duran

Jose Gabriel Duran, known affectionately to all as Jose, embarked on his final journey to heavenly paradise on November 13, 2025, at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and an impressive collection of Law and Order reruns. Born on January 20, 1963, in San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Jose carried the warmth of the Caribbean sun in his heart as he navigated life's ups and downs with a smile that could light up the darkest of rooms. His journey on earth came to a peaceful end in Middletown, NY, surrounded by the melodies of his favorite tunes and the memories of a life well-lived.
Jose's educational journey was one that he described with a chuckle as having graduated from the 'School of Hard Knocks,' where he purportedly majored in resilience and minored in humor. He often quipped that the school's mascot was a phoenix, always rising, which perfectly encapsulated his indomitable spirit. Jose's professional life was spent as a dedicated Pharmacy Technician, where he dispensed not only medicine but also generous doses of wit and wisdom to all those fortunate enough to cross his path.
He was a connoisseur of music and movies, with a particular fondness for the stories told on the silver screen. He was an avid movie fan at best.
Jose's family was the cornerstone of his life. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Gertrudis Duran; his cherished daughter, Nicole Duran Martin; his adoring sister, Lissette Duran Gonzalez; his precious grandson, Gabriel Duran Martin who was the apple of his eye at the tender age of one; his nephew, Ryan Gabriel Duran; and his esteemed sons-in-law, Mitch Martin and Rafael Gonzalez. The family tree, rich with aunts, uncles, and cousins, will continue to grow, nourished by the love and laughter that Jose so freely gave.
In the words of the great Robin Williams, "You're only given a little spark of madness. You mustn't lose it." Jose lived by this mantra, embracing his spark of madness which manifested in his ability to make anyone laugh, even in the most solemn of moments. His humor was a gift to all, a gentle reminder that life, even when it comes to an end, can be celebrated with a smile.
Jose Gabriel Duran was a man who could be best described as loving, kind, and undeniably funny. His memory will be cherished as a beacon of joy in the lives of those who knew him. As he makes his way to the pearly gates, one can almost hear the chuckle in his voice, saying, "I hope they have cable up there; I don't want to miss my shows." And while we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that heaven has gained a comedian with the soul full of love, whose laughter will surely echo through eternity.
A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home beginning from 2:00 PM-4:00 PM with a formal service commencing at 3:00 PM- 3:30 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a formal service commencing at 7:00 PM-7:30 PM.