It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jean Paul “JP” Medina, a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, chef, entrepreneur and cherished member of the Catskills community. Jean Paul Medina, 41, of Callicoon, New York passed away suddenly on August 23 at home.

JP lived his life for others. His time, his energy, his home, and his heart were always available to the people who needed him. He had an extraordinary ability to see people who felt unseen, to make them feel loved, important, capable and remind them of their worth. He was an advocate for the “underdog.” He gave freely and without hesitation, never expecting anything in return.

JP’s true passion in life was expressing his love for family and community through the food he made. His love for cooking was born in childhood, spending time in the kitchen alongside his mother, Nancy, where he learned the importance of bringing people together around a table. Although he initially pursued a career in plumbing, the kitchen continued to call him back. He ultimately took a leap of faith, left his day job and began his professional culinary career.

JP’s natural talent quickly became evident allowing him to hold positions at a number of respected restaurants and establishments continuously climbing the ranks. It was in the Catskills that JP found a place that he truly loved and ultimately called home. He developed deep connections throughout Sullivan County and became a passionate advocate for the people, businesses, farmers, and hospitality community that made the area special to him.

His love of hospitality eventually led him to Smōkd, where he was able to bring together his love of barbecue, heritage, hospitality and family. Smōkd was deeply personal to JP – a venture that allowed him to create something of his own alongside his family and share his passion for food with the community he so deeply loved.

Above all else, JP was a devoted husband, passionate “fur” baby father to 5 animals, son, brother, uncle, friend, and a member of his community. He was deeply loved by his family and by the many people whose lives he touched throughout his career and his life in the Catskills.

JP is survived by his loving wife Sarah Banks Medina, his parents Luz Nancy Medina and Alvaro Medina, his sister Ilene Medina and partner Ronnie Minerva, their children Skylar and Tyler Medina; his brother Sebastian Medina and sister-in-law Brittany Medina and their son Lucas Medina, as well as extended family, friends, colleagues and the many members of the community who loved him.

A closed and private service for immediate family was held on Friday, August 28 at Harrison Rasmussen Funeral Home.

A public celebration of JP’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 8 at Callicoon Hills, 180 Fire House Rd, Callicoon Center, NY 12727. Doors will open at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family will share information regarding memorial contributions at a later date.