Fernelly Calderon, 80, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 2, 2023, surrounded by his family. Fernelly was born on December 17, 1942, in Neiva-Colombia S.A., to Carlos and Clementina Calderon. After completing an associate’s degree program, he served in the Colombian National Guard for a few years. He married his beloved wife, Mercedes, on November 28, 1967, shortly after immigrating to the United States. Fernelly and his wife spent the next 40 plus years in New York raising their beloved three daughters. While living in New York, Fernelly found professional enjoyment as a tour guide for several years with the opportunity to travel throughout North America and Canada. Upon retiring, Fernelly and his wife relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, in 2008 full time. Fernelly was an avid historian who enjoyed discussing history and watching documentaries. He had sharp memory and could always recall historic facts and dates on a whim. Additionally, he enjoyed viewing classic cars, listening to country music, and had a knack for being handy around the house. He also enjoyed playing chess with his granddaughter Samantha.
He leaves behind his loving and supportive wife of 55 years, Mercedes; his three daughters, Maria, Cindy, and Linda; his two granddaughters, Samantha and Catalina; his son-in-law, Jordan; and his precious cat, Felix. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carlos & Clementina Calderon, his sister, Sylvia M. Candiano, and his son-in-law, Ronald J. Ingenito.
A funeral service and celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday January 10, 2023, 1 pm, at Ponte Vedra Valley Funeral home, followed by a private family reception.
