If a giant falls during a global pandemic, how do his loved ones mourn? Pedro “Peter” J. Pozo, 57, proprietor of the widely beloved Jimenez Tobacco, passed away suddenly, at his home in the Ironbound neighborhood of Newark, on Thursday, April 30, 2020. By Friday early morning, text messages and phone calls were circulating to share to sad news. Peter was born in Victoria de la Tuna, Oriente, Cuba on June 29, 1962 and came to the United States in 1968 at the age of 6.
Social media posts began to populate on Friday of friends, colleagues, and customers expressing their love, adoration, sadness, and shock at the loss. Jimenez Tobacco had established itself as the premier cigar lounge in New Jersey, showcasing hand-rolled cigars with their signature five blends of premium tobacco aged ten years, in a bespoke cocktail bar draped in Victorian-themed furniture and a pristinely curated outdoor courtyard. Live music was commonly presented at the speakeasy-style lounge, and from time to time, the entire space – inside and out – would be outfitted for grand events for a loyal, and discerning clientele. Many shared posts on Facebook and Instagram of the first time they stepped foot into Jimenez Tobacco or other notable experiences they had at the lounge.
Loving son of Armando and Nelda (Nee Jimenez) Pozo; beloved husband of Sandra Rachel (nee Garcia) Pozo; devoted father of Alexandra and Zoe; caring brother of Armando (Mondy) and Richie; Peter is survived by many dear relatives and friends countless others who felt the impact of his live and love, and will be sorely missed.
