Juan Carlos Cordero's Obituary
JUAN CARLOS CORDERO, 62 of Princeton, New Jersey passed away of natural causes on Sunday, July 13, 2025, surrounded by his family. His life was defined by two great callings: his unwavering love for family and his passion for education.
Born in Alajuela, Costa Rica, to Rodrigo Cordero González and Mercedes Campos Solano, Juan Carlos built a meaningful life in the United States with his beloved wife, Jessica Madrigal. Together they raised two children, Carlos and Nina, to whom he gave his whole heart. A humble and principled man, he lived with quiet strength and deep integrity, touching the lives of many with his steady presence and kind spirit. He spent his final months with a heart full of joy and anticipation, eagerly awaiting the birth of his first granddaughter. He was deeply moved to witness the marriage of his daughter, Nina, to Alexander—an event filled with love, laughter, and the presence of many dear to him.
Education entered Juan Carlos’s life unexpectedly—like many of life's most meaningful paths—and quickly became his great calling. He was a passionate Spanish educator, dedicated to sharing his native language, culture, and literature. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Education from The Catholic University of America and began his teaching journey as a Spanish Lecturer at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Juan Carlos later served as Head of the World Languages Department at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Olney, Maryland and, most recently, at Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart in Princeton, New Jersey, where he inspired Middle and Upper School students until his final days.
Juan Carlos is survived by his loving family including his wife Jessica Madrigal, Son Carlos Cordero, Daughter Nina Cordero, Son-in-law Alexander Wagner, Siblings Ana Mercedes, Rodrigo, Jose Antonio and Luis Diego Cordero, Hazel, Lourdes, Jose Antonio, Andrea and Gabriela Madrigal, along with many other family and friends.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 2:00PM at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School Chapel in Olney, Maryland.
Jessica, Carlos, Nina, and Alexander extend their deepest gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support during this time of grief and transformation. They pray Juan Carlos’ example, his spirit, and his legacy will continue to guide all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Esperanza Education Fund in his memory.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
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