Juan Francisco Garcia Toral

Mr. Juan Francisco Garcia Toral, of Newton, died Saturday, November 8, 2025, at his home. He was 45.

Juan was born in the Dominican Republic (DR) on April 21, 1980, a son of Argentina Toral and Juan Garcia. Raised and educated in the DR, he pursued college studies, excelled in Operations and Logistics roles, and worked for the family company before moving to the United States.

A proud mail carrier for the United States Postal Service – Newtonville Branch, Juan was a leader and mentor in his office, known for his incredible work ethic. He loved his job, and enjoyed connecting with customers on his route, especially the dogs, starting out a bit wary but soon bringing treats and enjoying their greetings each day.

Juan was passionate about helping people, standing up for those who couldn’t, and championing the underdog. Thoughtful, funny, intelligent, and well-educated, he was a true gentleman; magnetic, strong, and confident. His larger-than-life personality and beautiful smile lit up the room, he made everyone feel special because he believed they were. An amazing and fiercely loyal friend, he was deeply loved by all who knew him. A huge sports fan, Juan followed baseball, basketball, and football closely, with Michael Jordan as his all-time favorite. He also had a soft spot for Lifetime movies, and on quieter days, he would settle in for a Lifetime movie marathon, just because.

A proud Dominican and devoted family man, Juan’s love for his children was boundless. He was the cherished Papa to Juan Diego “JD” and Sarah Gabriella, whom he treasured above all. His kids were everything to him. Juan found his greatest joy in family moments and his other roles as a beloved spouse, son, brother, uncle and friend.

Juan was the light of Kelly Cronin’s life; a selfless partner, he made her feel like the luckiest person in the world to have been loved by him. He was also a dedicated co-parent with his former wife and dear friend Yizza Heringer, the mother of his children.

Juan leaves his spouse, Kelly Cronin of Newton; his children, Juan Diego and Sarah Gabriella Garcia of Boynton Beach, FL; his father Juan Garcia; his mother, Argentina Toral, siblings, Melissa Garcia Toral, Larissa Garcia Toral and her husband Jabib Suarez, and Alejandro Garcia; his nephew and niece, Jabib Sebastian and Sofia Isabella, all of the Dominican Republic; as well as many dear friends and extended family in Massachusetts, Florida, and the Dominican Republic.

Family and friends are invited to honor and remember Juan’s life by gathering for an Evening Wake from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, November 17th at Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, with a prayer service at 7 p.m. He will then be returned home to his native Dominican Republic for his final resting place.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Juan’s memory to a local food pantry of your choice.