FALL RIVER... Jovanni L. Perez, age 18, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at Charlton Memorial Hospital. Jovanni was born in Brockton, MA to Carlos L. Perez of Fall River, MA and Jessica L. Fortes of Brockton, MA. He was raised by Carlos and Katie Perez in the Brockton area, later moving to East Weymouth and Fall River. There were many nicknames for Jovanni by those who loved him. "Jo" and "JoJo" to family, "Gio" among friends, and "Spongie" by his aunt in honor of his favorite childhood cartoon, to name a few. He was a quiet and sensitive young man, known by his family and friends as a gentle soul. Jovanni's laugh was contagious, as was his gorgeous smile. He loved sports, especially playing baseball and football, and listening to music and dancing. Growing up, he had many fond memories of attending church with his grandmother. Jovanni was a loving father and a wonderful brother to his sisters, whom he would do anything for. In addition to his parents, survivors include: children, Xhyivhon and Xyi-Lahna along with his girlfriend, Ray; sisters, Jayani and Jilaysia; brothers, Jasyc and Maine; grandparents, Paul and Lynne Cunningham, Maria Ramos, and Joao and Michelle Fortes; many aunts, uncles, and cousins as well as a great cousin on the way. Funeral service to which relatives and friends are invited to attend will take place on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 11 AM at St. Edit Stein Parish, 71 East Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301, followed by interment at Melrose Cemetery in Brockton. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 26, 2023 from 4-8 PM at South Coast Funeral Home, 1555 Pleasant Street, Fall River, MA 02723.