Josiah Ralph Ponce Caballero

Celebrating the Life of Josiah Ralph Ponce Caballero

“El Charrito Nuevo”

December 13, 2006 – September 23, 2026

Josiah Ralph Ponce Caballero, lovingly known as “El Charrito Nuevo,” was born on December 13, 2006, to Rafael “Ralph” Ponce III and Lorena Caballero Ponce. On September 23, 2026, at just 19 years old, Josiah entered heaven's gates, leaving behind a lifetime of beautiful memories, unfinished dreams, and a legacy of love.

Josiah was an extraordinary young man whose intelligence, kindness, ambition, and beautiful heart touched everyone who knew him. From an early age, he demonstrated remarkable creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit. At just seven years old, he created his own YouTube channel and developed a brand called “Jsters.” An honor-roll student with a passion for technology, Josiah graduated from Southwest High School in 2025 and continued his education at Imperial Valley College, studying computer science.

As the fourth generation of the Ponce family lineage, Josiah shared an especially close bond with his paternal grandfather, Rafael “Ralph” Ponce Jr., who proudly celebrated his grandson's accomplishments and dreams. His maternal grandfather, Roberto Caballero, a singer and man of God, also helped inspire Josiah's love for music and faith.

Music was one of Josiah's greatest passions. As a little boy, he loved wearing his charro suit and singing traditional Mexican music. His paternal great-grandfather affectionately nicknamed him “Charrito,” and years later, his father gave him the professional stage name “El Charrito Nuevo.” Together, father and son spent countless hours rehearsing, planning, and pursuing Josiah's dream of becoming a recording artist. He was developing his debut EP, including his first single, “Ojitos Bonitos,” written by a Latin Grammy Award-winning songwriter. Although his musical journey was just beginning, his family is committed to preserving his music and sharing his voice with the world.

Josiah shared a beautiful and loving bond with his parents. His mother, Lorena, treasured their heartfelt conversations, favorite shows, shared desserts, and singing romantic songs together during car rides. His father, Ralph, was not only his daddy but also his mentor, greatest supporter, and partner in his musical dreams. To both parents, Josiah was their precious firstborn son and an immeasurable source of pride and joy.

Josiah was a loving brother to Marilyn, Ezekiel, and Jeremiah. He shared a special bond with his younger brothers, whom he loved spending time with, taking on adventures, and making them laugh. As their older brother, he was someone they could admire, learn from, and look up to.

Josiah also shared a beautiful relationship with his sister, Marilyn. Throughout their lives, they supported and cared for one another through open communication, shared secrets, and unwavering love. As they grew older, Josiah cherished spending time with Marilyn, accompanying her on outings, and looking after her and their cousins. The love and connection they shared will remain a treasured part of their family’s memories.

Josiah deeply loved his grandmothers, Sandra Ponce and Maria Teresa Caballero, and cherished his extended family. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, spending time with friends, and volunteering at New Destiny's Vacation Bible School. His kindness, loyalty, compassion, and ability to make others feel loved will always be remembered.

Josiah is survived by his loving parents, Rafael “Ralph” Ponce III and Lorena Caballero Ponce; his sister, Marilyn; his brothers, Ezekiel and Jeremiah; his grandmothers, Sandra Ponce and Maria Teresa Caballero; his nephews, Malachi and Favian; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandfathers, Rafael “Ralph” Ponce Jr. and Roberto Caballero.

Nineteen years was not nearly enough, but Josiah's love, laughter, dreams, and music will live forever in the hearts of those who knew him. His family will continue to honor his memory and carry forward the dreams he was unable to fulfill.

His life was a blessing. His memory is a treasure. His music and legacy will live forever.

Forever 19. Forever loved. Forever our El Charrito Nuevo.

“Al cielo llegó cantando.”

Long Live Josiah Ralph Ponce Caballero

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at New Destiny Christian Church in El Centro, California.

The family kindly requests that all floral arrangements be white.