Juan (Ralph) Muriel

Juan (Ralph) Muriel, 86, of Albany, New York, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at Albany Medical Center, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, he moved as a child to New York City, where he was raised by his maternal grandparents, Francisco and Francisca Muriel. He remained with them until his marriage to Elsie Cruz, the love of his life, and together they continued to care for his grandparents. Elsie predeceased him on August 6, 2018, after 39 years of marriage.

Juan worked for more than 42 years as a sous chef at Gallagher’s, the renowned steakhouse in New York City. He was a devoted father who often held two jobs to support and raise his three daughters, Doreen Muriel, Deborah (Edward) Rivera, and Janice Stallworth, whom he cherished deeply. Though he worked hard, he also made time for joy. On weekends, he and Elsie welcomed family, friends, and neighbors into their home, where Juan became known for his exceptional barbequing skills. The couple continued this tradition of hospitality after moving to Albany in 1996.

He was predeceased by his mother-in-law, Andrea Rodriguez, who lived with the family for much of her life, and by his granddaughter, Jasmine J. Lopez. Juan is survived by his daughters; four grandchildren, Aaron JC Aguilar, Jasmine C. Aguilar, Victor M. Diaz, and Vanessa N. Rodriguez; six great-grandchildren, Atlas Juan Raul Aguilar, Anelise Andrea Aguilar, Elise Lissette Polanco, Jeannestine Carr, Victor Diaz III, and Damian Diaz; his loving niece, Yvette (Pedro) Diaz; and his great-niece, Melody Diaz.