Julio Cesar Rojas Sr.

Julio Cesar Rojas, Sr. passed away on June 4, 2025, after a 3-year battle with Parkinson’s and Dementia.

Julio was born on December 31, 1944, in Ibagué, Colombia, South America, to the late Julio Rojas and Abigail Rojas Puerto. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers: Alvaro Rojas and Vicente Puerto. Julio grew up in Bogotá, Colombia, South America, and moved to Danville, VA, when he was 19 years old.

Julio is survived by his wife of 59 years, Virginia Rhodes Rojas; three sons: Julio (Jay) Rojas, Jr. (Debbie), Eddie Rojas (Amy), and Ricky Rojas (Joanna); and one daughter, Diana Rojas Moats (Tim). He was the loving “Pop” to 10 grandchildren: Gunnar Rojas (Rachel), Abigail Rojas, Caleb Rojas, Tyler Moats, Dylan Rojas, Emma Rojas, Ahna Moats, Harrison Rojas, Lucas Rojas, and Levi Rojas.

He is also survived by two brothers: Eduardo Puerto and Ricardo Puerto; and two sisters: Martha Puerto and Lilian Puerto. He is survived by his very special sister-in-law, Betty R. Adams, who has taken unbelievable care of us over the last 3–4 years, and by special nephews and niece David L. Adams (Patricia), Dawn A. Bryant, and Derek L. Adams (Misty), who have been there for us throughout this time and have done so much for us. He also had several nieces and nephews in Colombia. Julio was blessed by having two “almost” sons, Darren and Bryan Coke, who have always been “family” to us and were amazing throughout his illness.

Julio proudly became a citizen of the United States (the country he loved) on July 4, 1969. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Danville, VA. He graduated from Averett College and retired from Danville Regional Medical Center after 35 years of service.

Our family would like to thank all the staff of Amedisys Hospice, especially Karina and Stephanie, and his caregivers: CNAs Loretta, Queen, Sybil, Shemar, Debbie, and Tina for their loving care.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to all of you who have provided us with love and met our needs—food, physical help, car rides, phone calls, visits, flowers, thoughts, and prayers—especially: Sue Sage, Joy Tracy, Mike and Donna Comper, Star Bennett, Sandy Erasmo, Carol Van Valkenburg, Karen Yeatts, Eddie Dees, Judy Harris, Kandis Haller, Dana Mehalko, Dixie and Wayne Manley, Mary Nunley, April Clarke, David Mensavage, Lina Aquilo, and Mike and Mary Mondul.

A memorial Mass will be held Monday, June 9, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

A celebration of Julio’s life will be held at 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company, located at 209 Trade Street, Danville, VA 24541 immediately following his Mass.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Sacred Heart Catholic School.