WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Jose M. Vargas Reillo, most known as “Punky”, age 53, of Waterbury, shares the news of his peaceful passing on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Saint Mary’s Hospital.

Jose was born on July 11, 1972, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and raised in the beautiful “Barrio Cocos” of Quebradillas, Puerto Rico, the beloved son of the late Hilario Vargas Reyes and Amelia Reillo Gonzalez. Jose was a cherished son, devoted friend, and beloved family member. He spent most of his years in Puerto Rico. Jose attended Juan A. Arizmendi High School in Quebradillas, Puerto Rico. Throughout his life, he embraced working primarily as a cook at Tony’s BBQ and Papo’s Pizza but also showing his dedication as a production worker at Glamourette, and a maintenance technician in Connecticut. His love for cooking was a testament to his heart; many will fondly remember his famous rice and beans, as well as his homemade pizza. His kitchen was a hub of joy, bringing his family and friends together to celebrate life and create lasting memories.

An avid lover of music, Jose found joy in soft rock, often sharing his favorite Mana and Bon Jovi songs with those around him. He was also a passionate supporter of basketball, with a special fondness for the Piratas de Quebradillas. He enjoyed spending time at the beach. In 2016, he made the heartfelt decision to move to Waterbury, where he continued to share his warmth and love with his beloved family.

Jose will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he forever rest in peace.

Left to honor and cherish his memory and legacy are his siblings, Jose A. Vargas and his wife Lizette, Rafael A. Vargas and his wife Sonia, Carmen A. Vargas, Maritza Vargas and her husband Angel, Angel L. Vargas and his wife Carmen and Carlos A. Vargas. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, cousins and other extended family members and friends.

Funeral Services for Mr. Vargas Reillo will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. when a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Todos Los Santos Parish, St Anne’s Church 515 S. Main St Waterbury. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Relatives and friends may pay their respects and visit with the Vargas Reillo family on Thursday morning from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705. To honor Jose’s memory and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association, https://www.heart.org/en/?form=FUNELYZXFBW. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you on the funeral home website. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family, please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com.