Rafael Leonidas Tejeda Cintron

Rafael Leonidas Tejeda Cintron, known affectionately as Rafael to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, in Chesapeake, VA. Born on June 19, 1951, in the Dominican Republic, Rafael's zest for life and infectious humor touched everyone he met throughout his 74 years.
Rafael's journey to the United States as a young man marked the beginning of a life filled with dedication and service. Following his passion for his adopted country, he honorably joined the US Army, where he developed a strong sense of discipline and camaraderie. After serving his term, Rafael transitioned into a successful career at Ford Motor Company in New Jersey, eventually taking his expertise to Virginia, where he continued to make significant contributions until his retirement.
Rafael was a beloved husband to his wife, Bernardina Francelis Tejeda Gomez, with whom he shared a life full of love and laughter. His legacy continues through his children, Rafael L. Tejeda, Jr., Jessica Tejeda Maynard, and Caroline Tejeda, who each carry a part of their father's kind spirit and jovial nature. His role as a grandfather to Annabelle and Julian Garcia was one, he cherished deeply, always ready with a joke to brighten their day and excited to join them in playing their favorite games and sports.
He was a brother to many, including Victor, Jose Miguel, Freddy, Luis, Cesar, as well as his half-brothers Hector and Fernando Tejeda. Together, they shared an unbreakable bond, rooted in their shared heritage and love for their family. Rafael was preceded in death by his parents, Juan B. Tejeda Pena and Olinda Aurora Cintron Romero, who instilled in him the values of faith, love, and the importance of family that he carried throughout his life.
A man of faith, Rafael's Catholic beliefs guided his actions and brought comfort and inspiration to those around him. He was a pillar in his community, often sharing his knowledge and extending a helping hand to those in need.
Rafael's interests were as varied as they were passionate. An avid gardener, he found joy in the simplicity of nurturing life from the earth. His love for the outdoors, bicycling and long walks was only matched by his enthusiasm for Dominican baseball, a nod to his roots that never faded. Rafael's love for the Dominican Republic remained a constant in his life, often reflected in the stories he shared and the culture he celebrated.
Described by many as funny, loving, and kind, Rafael was indeed the life of the party. His ability to recite poems from memory and crack jokes at just the right moment earned him the affection and admiration of all who knew him. His presence was a source of joy and his absence will be deeply felt.
Rafael's life was a testament to the power of laughter, the strength of family, and the importance of kindness. He will be remembered for his unwavering positivity and the love he spread so generously. As we say goodbye to Rafael Leonidas Tejeda Cintron, we hold onto the memories and the lessons he left behind. His spirit will continue to live on through the stories told, the gardens grown, and the love shared among those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Visitation will be held Sunday, February 1st from 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton. Funeral services will be held Monday at 10:45 am from the funeral home followed by a 11:30 am Mass at St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church, 101 Myrtle Avenue at Oak Street, Passaic, NJ. Cremation to follow at East Ridgelawn Cemetery, 255 Main Avenue, Clifton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org) or www.misionessalesianas.org. Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary