Northfield Man’s Family Uses His Obituary to Warn of Heroin Epidemic

Jared Corona sounds like a guy who had a lot to live for. He had a sweet demeanor, a loving family and many friends who remember him for his affectionate bear hugs.

Jarad had always excelled in sports, even playing football in college before returning to South Jersey to help run his family's restaurant and enjoy his life.

Only things didn't work out that way. Jared died on Saturday at age 27.

I didn't know him but I've heard his story before. Jared Corona has become another sad statistic in the what his family calls "the growing heroin epidemic".

The Corona family has courageously used Jared's obituary to draw attention to South Jersey's heroin problem and to plead with families to do whatever they can to help loved ones with addictions.

The obituary is powerful and heartbreaking to read. But the message is important and urgent, so read it and take heed.

"Jared Paul Corona, 27-year old chef and co-owner of El Coyote Southwest Grill, passed away in his Northfield home on September 5, 2015.

Jared will always be remembered as a strong, tender-hearted, compassionate, talented, and loving son and brother whose ability to make others laugh was unsurpassed. He was an excellent football player, whose role as a center on the field was mirrored by his role as the center of his close-knit family.

Addiction was the illness that took him, but it never overcame the essence of who he was. Jared made friendships easily, gave generously from his heart, and was famous for his comforting bear hugs.

Jared, known as “Moose” and “Jarebear”, graduated from Mainland Regional High School in 2006 and attended Ursinus College where he pledged a fraternity and played football.

Jared is predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Thomas and Sara Corona,and maternal grandfather Peter Martin. Jared is survived by his dedicated,loving and supportive parents, Thomas and Mary Corona; his loving brothers, Joshua and Jordan; loving maternal grandmother, Betty Martin of NC; and his loving aunts, uncles, cousins and godchildren; as well as the El Coyote family and his beloved dog Elvis.

The growing heroin epidemic continues to steal precious lives across the country. If you have any loved ones who are fighting addiction, Jared's family asks that you do everything possible to provide continual support, love and guidance as they did.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 13, from 1-3 pm at the Adams-Perfect Funeral Home, 1650 New Road, Northfield, NJ 08225. In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate donations to Gilda’s Club South Jersey, 700 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221.Condolences may be left for the family at adams-perfect.com."