Remigio Baerga, Jr.

Remigio Baerga, Jr. was born February 20, 1955, in Manhattan, New York, to the late Remigio Baerga and Hilda Bayron. He was the second and youngest of two sons. He is predeceased by his brother, Franklin.

Remigio grew up in the Hunting Park area of Philadelphia, where he received his formal education. He played football in high school and was an avid sports fan of the Las Vegas Raiders, as well as enjoying basketball and WWE wrestling.

Upon graduating high school, he served his country in the military by joining the Navy.

After several years at home, “Jay,” as he was affectionately called, moved to Lancaster to the Men's Gateway House to begin his journey of 35 years free of narcotics. He was a pillar of strength and support to numerous men on their road to recovery in Narcotics Anonymous, particularly in his role as a counselor and sponsor. He annually attended Narcotics Anonymous conventions in Pennsylvania, did many speaking engagements throughout his life, and developed many lifelong friends and memories.

As an adult, Jay worked many jobs and had many skills. His greatest love was cleaning and working on things. He worked for the State of Pennsylvania at the Federal Defense Logistics Agency for 20 years until he retired in 2023. In his retirement, he enjoyed watching TV and spending time with family and friends. He always had a “story” to tell and an ear for a friend.

He was united in marriage to Lisa in 2008, whom he affectionately called “Momma Sita” and “Sweet Pea.” Their hearts were stitched together for 17 years. They traveled and enjoyed eating out, working in their garden, and going on secret adventures, spending time with their beloved dog, Noodles, who they called their baby.

Family was at the heart of Jay’s life. He cherished every moment with his children and grandchildren, coaching them through all of life’s lessons, trials, and errors. He was always steadfast and available, with lots of instructions and advice.

He adored his two grandchildren, Jermaine Jr., whom he recently was able to see graduate high school and leave for college, and his beloved granddaughter, Jyzell Rae’Lynn, who held his heart. He spoiled her with car trips, packed lunches, and reading time with her “Pop Pop.”

He leaves behind a legacy of love, storytelling, and enduring strength to his beloved wife, Lisa Baerga, of 17 years; children, Ray Jr., Jermaine, Johnelle, and Jasmine; sister-in-law, Mary Martin; grandchildren, Jermaine Jr. and Jyzell Rae’Lynn; nephew, Jerome Bayron and his wife, Maria; and grandniece, Angelique.