Julio "Jay" DeGuzman Jr's Obituary
Julio “Jay” DeGuzman, Jr.
October 27, 1950 – October 17, 2025
Julio DeGuzman, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected community leader, passed away on October 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in La Jolla, California. He was 74 years old, just ten days shy of his 75th birthday.
Born in Malasiqui, Pangasinan, Philippines, on October 27, 1950, Julio immigrated with his parents to the United States at the age of four — first to Hawaii and later to San Diego, the city he proudly called home for the rest of his life. From a young age, Julio lived by the values of faith, family, and service, principles instilled in him by his father, a U.S. Navy serviceman.
After attending San Diego State University on a wrestling scholarship and graduating in 1973 with a degree in Criminal Justice, Julio began his lifelong career in public service as a Deputy Probation Officer for the County of San Diego. In 1982, he joined the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) as a Special Agent — one of the first Filipino-Americans to serve in that capacity. His distinguished career took him across the world, including an assignment at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, where he conducted counterintelligence and anti-corruption operations with integrity and courage.
Julio later served as a Senior Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, where his investigations into fraud and corruption led to dozens of successful prosecutions and national recognition. He concluded his professional service with the San Diego City Attorney’s Office, where he worked as both a Criminal Investigator and Community Relations Director until his retirement in 2018. In total, Julio devoted over 45 years to government service — a legacy of integrity, perseverance, and compassion for others.
Beyond his professional achievements, Julio was a pillar of the Filipino-American community and a dedicated civic leader. He served as President of the Pangasinan Association of San Diego County, President of the Malasiqui Association of San Diego County, and District Governor of Lions Clubs International, District 4-L6, representing nearly 50 clubs and 1,300 members across San Diego and Imperial Counties. As a founding member of the Filipino-American Law Enforcement Officers Association, and an active participant in the San Diego Pan-Pacific Law Enforcement Association and the Knights of Columbus, Julio built lasting bonds through fellowship, mentorship, and faith-led service. His leadership in each of these organizations reflected the Lions’ enduring motto: “We Serve.”
He was also deeply involved in local politics and civic engagement, believing that leadership meant active participation in democracy and the pursuit of integrity in public service. Julio proudly served on the San Diego County Republican Central Committee and spearheaded multiple campaign operations for his friends and colleagues.
Julio’s personal life was filled with the same spirit of love, dedication, and discipline that guided his public service. He served on school parent committees, coached wrestling, and was a lifelong lover of snow skiing. Whether on the slopes with his family or in his garden among his palm trees and tomatoes, Julio carried the same enthusiasm and mentorship that defined every part of his life.
Family was Julio’s greatest joy and proudest achievement. He set an enduring example for his community and loved ones through his sincere devotion to his siblings and extended family. His presence at every gathering, his willingness to collaborate, and his steady support reflected the same compassion he shared with everyone he served.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Lisa; his children Christopher, Jonathan, Marissa, and Donald; and his cherished grandson Noah. He is also remembered with love by his brothers, sister, extended family, and countless friends who were touched by his generosity, leadership, warm heart, and endearing presence.
Those who knew Julio will remember his humility, humor, and tireless dedication to helping others. Whether serving his country, mentoring youth, or volunteering in his community, he lived by his own simple motto: “Work hard and keep on working.”
If ordering flower arrangements, family requests "Plants" or "Gift baskets".
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