Desmond Paul Pantaja Sr., affectionately known as Dene, lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a spirit of adventure. Born on November 3, 1969, in Jamaica Queens, NY. Desmond was a man whose infectious smile and kind-hearted nature left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. Following a life well-lived, he passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, in Chambersburg, PA. (St. John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.) Desmond grew up in the bustling streets of Queens New York, a city that imbued him with resilience and a zest for life.

Desmond, known for his thoughtful and adventurous spirit, lived his life as a testament to the values he held dear. A graduate of Satellite Academy in 1989, he was a man of intellect and perseverance. Desmond proudly served his country as a dedicated veteran of the Army, which reflected his enduring sense of duty and patriotism. His professional life spanned over 16 years in the commercial transportation industry, where he was respected by his colleagues and took pride in his work.

In 1989, a beautiful love story began when he met his soulmate, Wendy Stewart at the store they both worked at called "Pergament". Desmond kept telling people that he was going to marry her, but Wendy was telling Desmond to "Stop Telling People That." So, of course Desmond was a man whose infectious smile and kind-hearted nature was hard to resist. Then BOOM…He married his soulmate on Dec 10, 1993, and together they were blessed with a nurturing, blended, close-knit family. ShaniQuah, Lai'Quan, Desmond Jr. Daeman, and Taylor who added joy to their daily lives. Desmond was a proud grandfather to Caleb Thompson, Evoilet George, Aliyah Thompson, La'Nya Thompson, William Pantaja, Desmond Pantaja the 3rd, Avayah Pantaja, Mason Pantaja, and Daelin Pantaja.

He was the cherished son of James Johnson and the late Linda Taylor. His siblings Michael Pantaja Jr., Robert Taylor, Jay Matthew the 4th, Kasey Matthew, Torrin Matthew, James Johnson Jr., Alexander Johnson, and Nikyah Johnson, each held a unique place in his heart. He was also a dear son-in-law to Overseer Margret Stewart and the late Assistant Overseer Abraham Stewart. He treasured and valued the relationships with his siblings-in-law, Von Stewart Sr. (deceased), Gail Tindall, Vicki Barham, Kim Nealous, Darin Stewart Sr, Sherri Clifton, Andre Stewart Sr., Carl Nealous, Allen Barham Sr., Terrell Clifton, and Chantel Stewart all of whom he adored immensely.

Desmond was a devout Christian and spiritual person, where he was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Queens, NY and his faith was the compass that guided his life. He stood as a beacon of strength and compassion, living by the well-known biblical teachings that resonated throughout his actions: "Love thy neighbor as thyself" (Mark 12:31). His Christian values were evident in how he treated others—always with love and respect, qualities that will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Desmond's spirit was a testament to the power of love and the strength of family bonds. One of Desmond's favorite quotes, which he lived by and often shared with others, was by the renowned poet Maya Angelou, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." This philosophy was the cornerstone of how Desmond approached every interaction, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched.

Desmond was a man of diverse interests, ranging from his love of sports to the tranquility he found on the golf course. He loves to travel and expanded his view of the world by reflecting his adventurous spirit. His personality was the epitome of loving and funny; he carried a light within him that brightened any room. If you were in the same room with Desmond & didn't know who he was, you would have by the time you left. Lol!

As we remember Desmond Paul Pantaja Sr., we honor a man who embraced life's journey with enthusiasm and unwavering faith. He will forever be remembered, not simply for the life he lived, but for the countless lives he touched with his warmth and generosity. Let us celebrate Desmond, a man who made this world a better place just by being in it. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of those he held near and dear.

Your presence is deeply missed, but your love still surrounds us. We cherish your memory and honor your beautiful soul today and always.

"Always Remembered, Never Forgotten"

~Love Your FAMILY~

The funeral will be held at 4pm on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, MD.  Pastor Allen Barham, Sr. will officiate.  A viewing will be held one hour prior to the service (3pm).