Jose V. Amaral

Jose V. Amaral July 22, 1949 - May 30, 2026 Jose V. Amaral passed away peacefully at his home in Fairfield, California, on May 30, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on July 22, 1949, in San Miguel in the Azores Islands, Jose built a life centered around family, hard work, and the simple joys that brought people together. He immigrated from the Azores and eventually made Solano County his home, where he became known for his dedication to both his work and his family. Jose devoted more than three decades of service to the Benicia Unified School District, where he worked from 1979 until his retirement in 2011. Through years of hard work and leadership, he rose to become Director of Maintenance, a position he held with pride and dedication. Jose enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and cherished the time spent with those he loved most. He was an avid gardener who took great pride in growing his own grapes and making homemade wine. He loved gathering family together for barbecues, cheering on the 49ers, watching Western movies, and creating memories with his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Giselda Amaral, who passed away in 1998. Jose is survived by his children, Michael Amaral and his wife, Maria, Nelson Amaral, and Alisa Amaral; his brothers, Tony Amaral and Robert Amaral; his sister, Rosemary Fayertag; and his cherished grandchildren, Angelina, Juliana, Gianna, and Logan, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Family and friends are invited to attend a Vigil Service beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at St. Dominic’s Church in Benicia, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. Mass my be viewed on line at https://youtube.com/live/jV67UWwlHRE, interment will immediately follow at St. Dominic’s Cemetery in Benicia. Jose will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, love of family traditions, and the countless memories created around backyard barbecues, gardens, and family gatherings. His legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply. Here is the link for Friday's funeral if you would like to watch via livestream. https://youtube.com/live/jV67UWwlHRE