Joseph "Chuck" Fernandez, of Lakeland, FL died after battling Covid-19 on August 24, 2020, with his mother at his side, at the age of 53.

Joe was born with Cerebral Palsy on March 1st, 1967 in Tampa, FL. His strong spirit and love for people helped him overcome his physical limitations. He was a member of Boy Scout Troop 399 in Brandon, Fl, and graduated from Plant City High in 1986, later attending Polk Community College. He was involved with the building of several homes with Lakeland Habitat for Humanity and was always present in the building of his own home, in which he lived for 16 years. He attended Sunrise Community Day Program and held offices in the Service in Motion Club. His disability never held him back from experiencing all that life had to offer. He loved going on cruises, theme parks, family get togethers, great food, the occasional rum and coke, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Chuck experienced love and marriage and the loss of close friends and family. He loved people and showed it with rare emotion and enthusiasm. Chuck also had a special relationship with his brother Mark, whom he had many adventures with.

Joe was preceded in death by his grandparents Tony & Hilda Vidal and Clarie Fernandez, and life-long friend Michael L. Daniels. He is survived by his parents Peggy and Bud Jagars; father Jose Fernandez; brothers Mark, Steve, Chris, Bruce, Joe, and John; sister in law Jessica and nephews Quintin, Aedan and Isaac; God daughter Natasha; best friend Barbara, and numerous other family members and friends.

A celebration of Joe's life will be announced and held at a later date due to the pandemic. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Lakeland Habitat for Humanity.