Francisco Javier ("Javi") García passed away on May 12, 2025 in Washington, DC.

Born outside of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Javi moved to the DC area during his childhood. Religion played a heavy role in Javi's early years, as Catholicism was part of his day-to-day life. Javi graduated from DC's Bell Multicultural High School in 2008. For more than 20 years, Javi worked in the restaurant industry across DC, including Rosemary's Thyme Bistro, Annie's Paramount Steakhouse, and Alero. His magnetic energy, outgoing demeaner, and sharp sense of humor led to long-lasting friendships with customers and co-workers alike. In his free time, Javi was never one to turn down a night out with friends or an opportunity to dance the night away. Whether at Town Danceboutique or any of his other favorite spots, Javi brought people together with a contagious smile and an open heart.

Javi's greatest passion was art. He was a self-taught artist who worked in a variety of mediums, including acrylic paints, oils, oil pastels, charcoal, and clay. Javi derived much of his inspiration from his spiritual beliefs, philosophical nature, and life experiences – including occurrences of deep personal loss. Javi preferred to use dark and vivid palettes to portray his perception of events, portraits, and ideas. Javi often created large-scale paintings on surfaces of found objects such as doors, mirrors, wood panels, or any item that could lend itself to an interesting texture or mood. His craftsmanship was a form of therapeutic meditation, and most of his work was done without formal planning or limitations. Javi's artistry tells stories full of tragedy, playfulness, emotion, and beauty.

Though his time with us was far too short, his legacy will live on in every stroke of his artwork and in the memories he leaves behind. He is survived by his husband Robert Shoeman; siblings Ariana, Jose Luis, Belem, and Juan Manuel; and father Elias. He joins his mother, Esperanza, whose love and memory remained a guiding presence in his life. He also leaves behind the countless lives he touched through his joyful nature, laughter, and undaunted spirit.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing at Johnson & Jenkins Funeral Home at 716 Kennedy Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 on Sunday, May 18, 2025 from 4pm to 7pm.  In addition, a funeral service will be held at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart (Santuario del Sagrado Corazón) at 3211 Sacred Heart Way, Washington, DC 20010 on Monday, May 19, 2025 from 8pm to 11pm. Mass will begin at 8:30pm through 9:30pm.

Rest easy, dear Javi. Your art remains, and so does our love.