Loving, caring, genuine, humble, respectful
Jonny was born and raised in the beautiful, close-knit community of Kapaa, Kauai to Philip Sr. and Benita Papagayo, “The ocean, the mountains, and the mud under his boots, ran through his veins. He carried his island with him everywhere, in the way he lived, the way he loved, and the way he made everyone feel like family,” his fiancée, Akanahe, stated.
From an early age, Jonny was a natural fisherman, diver, hunter, and dirt bike rider. “He rode dirt bikes like the wind-fast, wild, and free. He hunted with patience, skill, and respect for the land, and fished with heart and soul,” Akanahe shared. The ocean gave him peace.
Always carrying a positive, move-forward attitude, Jonny gained work experience in landscaping, tree trimming, and painting, both on Kauai and Oahu. But his greatest mission and purpose in life was taking care of his family.
A loving, caring, and deeply respectful man, Jonny’s presence and love were deeply felt. He showed up for those he loved-especially his siblings, Steffanie, Philip Jr., and Jenn. Their bonds were unbreakable, and they always stood together.
In 2023, Jonny and Akanahe, got sober together and soon welcomed their “miracle baby,” Kaikena. Already a proud father to Kainalu, his boys and Akanahe were his world. He wrapped his boys in unconditional love and taught them strength and pride. Working hard to remodel a home for his family, and build a better life, the family planned to start a new chapter in Las Vegas in November of 2025.
Jonny’s struggle with substance use disorder was real, and though he worked hard to overcome it, he relapsed just one week before he passed. There was little warning. The pain of losing him was deep, as was the love he left behind.
Jonny was adventurous, caring, hardworking, and deeply rooted in family. He was humble and carried himself with strength, dignity, and a quiet fire in his eyes. Akanahe shared, “He wasn’t perfect-but he was real, and real is rare.” His legacy lives on in his sons, in the stories shared about him, and in the hearts of everyone he touched.
Akanahe’s wish for her forever love:
“Today, we trust that you are resting in green pastures, near still waters, at the top of mountain ridges, in every trail your tires touched, every fish you pulled from the sea, renewed and whole, at peace and watching over us.”
“Until we meet again-ride free, hunt strong, and fish in the craziest waters.
We love you forever.”
Jonny’s fiancée, Akanahe Rapozo, provided the information for this narrative.
November 3, 1992–March 21, 2025-Age 32
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
