Rafael Angel Esquilin Sr. was born in Gurabo, Puerto Rico to the late Carmen Nuñez Colon and Luis Esquilin Fernandez on October 20, 1935.

Rafael received his early education in Puerto Rico where he excelled in mathematics. After graduating high school he attended the University of Puerto Rico.
He left Puerto Rico and migrated to Florida where he worked various farm jobs.

He moved to New Jersey where he met and married the love of his life Marie Joyce Brown. A highlight of their union was having family gatherings and picnics.
Rafael was an avid sports fan. He played softball and he umpired baseball games for many years. His true love in sports was bowling. He is officially on record for bowling four perfect games. He treasured the prize rings and watches that he received from those games.

He worked for Shieldalloy Metallurgical Corporation for many years. He branched off and started F.W. Winters serving as VP of technical sales, where he retired.
He gave his life to Christ and served as a dedicated member as well as Deacon of Crusaders For Christ Church, Bridgeton, NJ.

Rafael was predeceased by his wife Marie Joyce Esquilin,  parents Carmen and Luis, brothers Luis Jr, and Natividad (Rosa).
He leaves to cherish his beloved memory, Sisters: Emma Esquilin Nuñez (Jose) and Rafaela Esquilin Nuñez; Brothers: Carlos (Gloria), Hector(Myrma), Son: Rafael Esquilin Jr. (Towanda), loved as a second son Jason Nicholson (Lisa) daughter Raffette Alston; his grandchildren Ditaniel Lee, Alexander Esquilin and Eric Esquilin; Great grandchildren Alana, Ditaniel Jr., Shaylyn, Makaylyn, Dallas and Brooklyn; and a host of family and friends.