Emilio Diaz-Garrido, 85, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, at home, surrounded by the love of his wife and family.  Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, Emilio was a man defined by courage, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. After spending time in Spain, he came to the United States in search of a better life — a decision that would become the foundation of a legacy rooted in strength, sacrifice, and family. Shortly after arriving, he met the love of his life, Mercedes (née Gaud). They married in 1976 and built a life together that spanned 50 years of love, partnership, and dedication.  Emilio worked for many years as an ironworker with Acme Rolling Steel Doors before retiring. He was known as a strong, wise, and determined man — someone who did not need many words to make his presence known. His love for his family was constant, steady, and deeply felt by all who knew him.  To his family, Emilio was more than a husband, father, and grandfather — he was a guiding force. He took immense pride in the life he built and the family he created, finding his greatest joy in the people around him. He had a deep appreciation for life’s simplest and most meaningful moments: sharing cafecitos, watching sports, listening to music, and dancing — often spontaneously — as if nothing else in the world mattered.  He will be remembered for the way he lived his life and the way he shaped the lives of those around him. Emilio encouraged his loved ones to be strong, to take risks, to embrace who they are unapologetically, and to live life fully. He instilled a sense of pride, confidence, and fearlessness in his family, leaving behind not just memories, but a lasting imprint on who they are today.

His love for music and dance, and his belief in experiencing all that life has to offer, will continue to live on through them.  Emilio is predeceased by his beloved son, Josh Rivera (2019); his parents, Enrique Diaz and Maria Garrido; his brother, Enrique Diaz; and his sister, Virginia Diaz.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Mercedes Diaz (née Gaud); his loving children, Elena Marfino and her husband Richard, and Barbara Rivera; and his cherished grandchildren, Christopher Rivera, Daniel Rivera, Lauren Vazquez, and Julianna Marfino, along with many extended family members and loved ones.  Though he may no longer be physically present, his spirit lives on in every lesson he taught, every laugh shared, every song played, and every moment lived with courage and love. His legacy will continue through the family he built and the lives he so deeply impacted.

Cremation will be held privately. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation at Nazare Memorial Home, Inc., 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.  In honoring Emilio’s life, his family encourages all to cherish their loved ones, live fully, and never be afraid to dance through life. You may express condolences to Emilio's family by using our tribute wall.