'A Brilliant Soul': 19-Year-Old Bernards High School Graduate's Death Mourned By Community

BERNARDSVILLE, NJ — Although only 19 at the time of his death, Bernards High School graduate Max (Maximilian) Gray-Barquero affected many people during his short time alive.

"He was a fiercely loyal friend and companion, a committed athlete and teammate, and a devoted son," according to his obituary.

Gray-Barquero unexpectedly died on Nov. 1, 2021. A GoFundMe fundraiser site was set up for his family.

He was born in Somerville and grew up in Bernardsville. At a very young age, Gray-Barquero found his life's passion in the blank pages of his mom's printer paper and his Crayola kit, according to his obituary.

His love for art led him to pursue a Graphic Design and Animation Studies degree at Rowan University.

Gray-Barquero is a graduate of Bernards High School in Bernardsville, where he played football as a wide receiver and linebacker. He was awarded the game ball on Nov. 1, 2019. As a captain his senior year, he was nominated for the Heart of a Giant award for his tremendous work ethic and dedication to his team.

"He was a brilliant soul, emitting his warmth to all those around him and spreading his never-ending joy. He impacted the lives of all those whose hearts he touched. He was a true jokester with a heart of gold and his infectious smile lit up any room he was in," according to his obituary.

A candlelight vigil will begin on Saturday, Nov. 6 at dusk (5:30 p.m.) at the Bernardsville Polo Grounds. All who wish to celebrate Gray-Barquero are welcome.

Gray-Barquero is the only child to mother, Laura Gray of Bernardsville, and father, Javier Barquero of Perth Amboy. Besides his parents, Gray-Barquero leaves behind his mother’s partner, Luis Rojas; half brother, Jean Paul Barquero; step siblings, Brianna Rojas, Christian Rojas, and Valeria Carrion, Jose Carrion, and many other loving family members and friends.

Cuoco Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 7, 5 to 8 p.m. at Mary, Mother of God Roman Catholic Church, at 157 S Triangle Rd., Hillsborough Township. Refreshments will be provided.

Mass will be held at Mary, Mother of God Roman Catholic Church, at 157 S Triangle Rd., Hillsborough Township, on Monday, Nov. 8 at 10 a.m. Mass will be livestreamed. Repast will be in the rectory following the service. Internment will be private.

If you're thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 across the US at 1-800-273-8255.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to our parish, Mary Mother of God Roman Catholic Church, 157 S Triangle Road, Hillsborough Township.

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