José Oscar Granda, beloved son, brother, uncle, teacher, mentor, artist, presenter, entertainer, and friend was taken from us on Sunday, December 11, 2022. He is survived by his brother, sister, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many caring friends.
José was born in Havana, Cuba and migrated to Miami, Florida in the early 1960s with his parents. He was devoted to his family and friends with whom he spent most of his time-when he wasn't swimming, of course. He was a proud deaf, gay, Cuban man who will be deeply missed by all those who knew him. His trademark smile and smirk, bear hugs, blunt honesty, and ability to be happy ALL the time are what defined José. His light will shine well beyond his presence on earth with us.
His impact within the deaf community in South Florida and beyond will carry on with this light, and his footprint on our lives will remain with us forever. Some of his closest and dearest friends have said: "José was a fixture of support in the Deaf and gay communities of Miami and beyond." "His lasting impact on his students and the MDC community will be felt for years to come."