Jose Luis Ruiz, 54, of Montague, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Morristown Medical Center, holding the hand of his beloved wife Vivian, who stood faithfully by his side through every step of his fight with colon cancer.

Born on February 7, 1972,  in Brooklyn, NY, Jose was the son of Sonia Ruiz and the late Luis Colon.

Jose built a long and dedicated career as a Bus Operator with the MTA out of Yonkers, where he served faithfully for 28 years driving the Wall Street Line Express Bus. His coworkers were like family to him, and he became a beloved fixture among the men and women he worked alongside each day.

A man of service and quiet leadership, Jose was a former Captain of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Squadron, where he devoted himself to mentoring young cadets — fostering leadership, character, and personal growth in the next generation. 

Beyond his career, Jose had a creative and entrepreneurial spirit. He owned and operated his own DJ and photo booth business, bringing music, celebration, and joy to countless weddings, parties, and gatherings.

Above all, Jose was a wonderful and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was known for his beautiful smile — he was always smiling, always joking, and always lighting up the room with his good humor. He was an honest man of integrity, a hard worker by nature, who treasured nothing more than the time he spent with his family. Jose and his wife Vivian shared 13 beautiful years together, a partnership defined by love, devotion, and a bond that carried him to the very end.

Jose is survived by his loving wife, Vivian Correa Ruiz; his mother, Sonia Ruiz; his cherished daughters, Ariel Elizabeth Ruiz, Aries Brittiny Ruiz, and Alina Sophia Ruiz; and his beloved children Matthew Williams, David J. Fraunberg, Andrew Flores, McKenzie Williams, and Miranda Williams. He was the proud grandfather of Vincenzo N'Klaus Nieves, Aiden Timothy Ruiz, and Sophia Marie Ruiz. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Carmen Ortega; his father-in-law, Edwin Correa; his brothers-in-law, Alex Correa and Erwin Correa; and by many cherished family members and friends. Jose was also deeply loved by his MTA family — his coworkers and friends who stood by him through the years.

Jose was predeceased by his father, Jose Luis Colon; and his brother, Raymond Reyes Ruiz.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jose's life on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:30 PM at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 East Main Street, Port Jervis, NY. Family Reflections will follow from 3:30 to 4:00 PM at the funeral home. In honor of Jose's courageous battle with colon cancer, the family kindly invites all who gather to wear something blue.

Arrangements entrusted to the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home of Port Jervis, NY.