Dr. Garcia of Tampa, FL, passed away on November 9. Jay was born in Havana, Cuba to parents, Rosa and Jose Garcia. When Jay was 14, they moved to the United States where they lived in Pompano Beach, Florida. He graduated from Pompano Beach High School, and received the first athletic scholarship to the University of South Florida for baseball. He went on to earn his M.D. from Temple University. After marrying Loraine, they started a family and he began his private practice. Dr. Garcia went on to become CEO of one of the largest medical groups in the Tampa Bay area. He also co-founded the Tampa Bay Women's group, one of the largest coalitions of Ob-Gyn groups in Tampa Bay. Dr. Garcia was an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of South Florida Medical School, where he was involved in the surgical training of residents. He also received advanced training in laparoscopic surgery and provided training to physicians in these advanced techniques. Dr. Garcia was known by many in the community as a wonderful doctor, helping women generation after generation for over 45 years. Jay took great pride in his health by working out, enjoyed watching football, and playing golf. Jay also enjoyed a good martini while watching the sunset at the beach. He was a proud grandpa and loved spoiling his grandchildren. Above all, his family came first.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rosa and Jose Garcia. Jay is survived by his wife of 49 years, Loraine; son, Michael Garcia (Virginia); daughter, Joanna Garcia Swisher (Nick); grandchildren, Andrew Garcia, Gabrielle Garcia, Emerson Swisher, Sailor Swisher, and Sebastian Garcia; sister, Maria Soltesz; nieces, Rosie Zingarella and Mary Soltesz.
A funeral mass November 15, 2019 at St. Mary Catholic Church 15520 N. Blvd. Tampa, FL. 33613.
PALLBEARERS
Michael Garcia
Andrew Garcia
Nick Swisher
Steve Swisher
Hector Rivera Jr.
Pete Zingarella