Reinaldo Gonzalez Velez

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Reinaldo Gonzalez Velez (known to all as "Rey"), who left us peacefully. Rey was born in 1952 to Gonzalo Gonzalez and Angela Velez in Puerto Rico, but he spent most of his formative years on the Lower East Side of New York City, a place he always held dear.

A proud graduate of Seward Park High School, Rey went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. He furthered his education with a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University School of Social Work, always seeking to learn more in order to serve others.

Rey's journey took a significant turn when he met Elizabeth, during their freshman year at John Jay College. Together, they built a remarkable life, marked by love, partnership, and shared values. In June 2025, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Over the course of their 50-year marriage, they raised three children-Liza, R.J., and Megan-instilling in them the same sense of devotion and commitment Rey demonstrated every day.

Rey was a devoted husband and father whose commitment to family extended into the community. He served as an Assistant Scout Master, NCAA-certified swimming official, and active volunteer, dedicating evenings and weekends to supporting his children's activities. As a member and later president of the Parent Teacher Association, he helped organize events and create meaningful experiences for students and families alike.

In February of 1980, Rey began his distinguished career with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department. For 33 years, he served with honor, retiring as a Sergeant. Throughout his career, Rey was involved in countless critical incidents, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and the September 11th attacks on the U.S. He worked at various Port Authority locations but had a special fondness for the George Washington Bridge. In addition to his regular duties, Rey served as a Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) officer, was a member of the Special Services Bureau, and became one of the first officers certified to operate the PAPD Mobile Command Post. His final assignment before retirement was as the Court Sergeant at Central Police Desk Headquarters.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Rey pursued his passion for helping others by becoming a Licensed Social Worker. He specialized in domestic violence, focusing on at-risk men to help break the cycle of abuse and foster a safer future for generations to come.

Rey is survived by his wife Elizabeth; his children Liza, R.J., and Megan; and his cherished grandchildren Olivia and Penelope. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who touched the lives of all who knew him. His love, dedication, and selflessness will never be forgotten.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 113 South Farview Avenue, Paramus, NJ. Funeral Service will be held at 9:30 am on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Vander Plaat Memorial Home, followed by a 10:00 am Funeral Mass at Holy Trinity RC Church, 34 Maple Avenue, Hackensack. Interment to follow at Fair Lawn Memorial Cemetery.