Jose Navascues Obituary

Mr. Jose Navascues, 85, of Aiken, SC, companion of 57 years to Barbara Bachmann, entered into rest on Friday, February 6, 2026.

As a native of Cuba, and while a young man, he had to flee his home country during Castro's takeover. A devout Christian, he was distributing anti-Castro information when he was arrested and incarcerated.

A cousin who was a communist sympathizer, who had friends in the regime, and due to Pepe's young age, led to his release. Eventually, Pepe was able to board a plane that was bound for the States. However, just prior to take off, the Cuban military boarded the plane and began calling out the names of various people whom they arrested. Most had the first name, Jose.

When he arrived in the States, Pepe began the immigration process as a Cuban refugee, who at the time was granted permanent resident status. He was then able to obtain permanent work in the States.

His dad's awning and tent business in Cuba was taken over by the communists, and due to the stress, his dad died in Cuba. Pepe's mom and aunts eventually made it to the States.

Pepe's work history allowed him several opportunities. He was formerly an Automobile Salesperson, Waiter, Dance Instructor, worked with the Latin publications of El Augustino and Hola Augusta in the local area, and worked in the language department at Aiken Technical College.

Along with Barbara, Pepe is survived by his sons, Jose Saturnino (Lissette) Navascues, Jr., and Cesar (Amy) Navascues and grandchildren, Isabella, Gabriella, and Nicholas.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 1 o'clock in the chapel of St. John's Methodist Church, Aiken, SC.

Please consider making memorials to St. John's Methodist Church in memory of Pepe. (www.stjaiken.org)