The most cherished memories I hold of Julian involve him sharing with me stories of his greatest pride and joy, Kathy and Joseph, across the years. He spoke with delight about them dressing as Spiderman and a wand-bearing Hermione, joining the honors society, their tennis accomplishments, and showing artistic and written talent. Watching them grow into beautiful adults brought him so much happiness. I will close with a line from one of the many emails and texts we exchanged when he felt pride after a tournament: “Soto genes…and an overbearing father who took them to the courts early in the morning before school nearly every day, even if it was just to hit at the wall for just 20 minutes. Go Papi, Go Papi, Go Papi!” My dear friend, thank you for being a light we can all follow. Khallid Bey
Julion John Soto
In Loving Memory of Julion John Soto
Julion Soto, aged 58 years old, passed away on August 5th, 2026 in his home in Brooklyn. He was born on June 14th, 1968, in Camden, New Jersey, to Felicita and Julio Soto, and lived his life in the heart of NYC, his beloved city. He was a 1986 graduate of Xaverian High School. He is survived by his children, Katherine (Kathy) Elizabeth Soto, Joseph Andrew Soto, and all those who loved him.
Julion was an avid reader, with a book collection that would stun any librarian, and a talented, published science fiction writer. He loved storytelling and movies, especially hidden gems he often scoured the internet for. He was also a huge tennis fan, telling any parent with young children to sign them up for tennis lessons, and a self-taught master racket stringer. He studied martial arts in his youth and was particularly fond of Kung Fu and Wing Chun. His knowledge was vast, and he had memorable, lasting conversations with anyone who came his way. He left a lasting impression on everyone he spoke to. Julion prided himself on being the most eloquent person in the room, and he was right about that. There wasn't a room he walked into where he wouldn't make his presence known. He was upfront and honest about the world and had a passion for justice that he held strongly. His love was stronger than that. He was a remarkable, intelligent man, and he will be missed dearly. May you forever rest in peace Papi. We love you.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Julion Soto asks that you consider planting a tree in their memory.