The news of Jose Castro’s passing in Sunday’s tragic ferry accident at Clearwater Beach has left many of us shaken, sorrowful, and searching for peace. Jose was a part of our Countryside Christian Church family—a familiar face, a quiet presence, someone many of us may have seen in passing or sat beside during a service. Though I didn’t know him personally, I saw him around and felt the warmth and community he helped build within our church family

My heart is heavy as I write this.

In moments like this, words often fall short. It’s hard to comprehend how suddenly life can change. One moment, ordinary and peaceful—then in a blink, tragedy strikes. Jose’s passing is a devastating reminder of how fragile life truly is. The loss of someone from our own spiritual family cuts deeply, whether we were close friends or simply brothers and sisters in faith.

What stands out, even from a distance, is how many lives Jose touched. Those who knew him speak of a kind heart, a deep faith, and a humble spirit. He was someone who showed up, who contributed quietly but meaningfully to the body of Christ, and who lived a life marked by grace and belief in God’s promises. His absence will be felt deeply—not just because of what has happened, but because of who he was.

To Jose’s family and loved ones: please know that you are not alone in this time of grief. Our hearts are joined with yours in mourning. We pray fervently that God will surround you with peace that surpasses understanding, that He will hold you close when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” That is our anchor today. That is our hope in the heartbreak.

We, as your church family, grieve with you. We weep with you. We lift you up in prayer daily and stand ready to support you however we can.
Jose, your time with us may have seemed too short, but your presence made a lasting impression. We trust that you are now resting in the arms of Jesus, where there is no more pain, no more fear—only peace, only love, only the eternal joy of being home with our Heavenly Father.

Rest in peace, Jose. You are missed. You are loved. And your memory will remain with us always.

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