Jorge Luis Escalante, a resident of Brevard, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 30, 1955, in Cayey, Puerto Rico, Jorge. was the son of Andres Escalante and Aurea Arroyo. Throughout his life, he called many places home, including Melbourne, Florida; Worcester, Massachusetts; Spartanburg, South Carolina; and his beloved hometown of Cayey, Puerto Rico, before settling in Brevard, North Carolina.

Jorge spent much of his working life behind the wheel, driving 18-wheelers and EMS transport vans. He took pride in his work and enjoyed the freedom of the open road.

In his free time, Jorge enjoyed watching movies, especially westerns, action films, and horror and supernatural stories. He loved driving, sharing meals and coffee with family and friends, and spending time with his loved ones—particularly his grandson, who brought him great joy. He was known for his cheeky sense of humor, generosity, modest nature, and friendly spirit. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand and always wanted to contribute wherever he could. Even a simple trip to the grocery store made him happy, especially when it meant picking out the fresh fruit he enjoyed so much.

Jorge. married Luz Barre in 2001. Though they later separated, they shared many years and memories together.

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Escalante of Rosman, North Carolina; his son, Andrew Escalante of Greenville, South Carolina; his grandson, Kingston Escalante of Anderson, South Carolina; his sisters, Camila Arroyo of Cayey, Puerto Rico, Margarita Vargas of Cayey, Puerto Rico, and Carmen Carattini of Cayey, Puerto Rico; as well as many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Andres Escalante; his mother, Aurea Arroyo; and his brother, Angel Escalante, all of Cayey, Puerto Rico.

Jorge will be remembered for his kind heart, easy conversation, willingness to help others, and the warmth he brought to those fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.