Dr. José M. Correa

Dr. José M. Correa, a beloved pediatrician, devoted father, and man of deep faith, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and kindness that touched countless lives. He was born in Chepén, Peru, where his journey of service and devotion to others began.

Known for his tireless dedication, Dr. Correa faithfully cared for his patients no matter the circumstance—seeing children on weekends, during snowstorms, and whenever a worried parent called. He was a gifted diagnostician, respected by colleagues and families alike for his insight and unwavering commitment to clinical excellence. Even outside the office, José’s thirst for knowledge never ceased. He could often be found reading the latest medical journals or taking walks while listening to AudioDigest lectures, always striving to learn more so he could give his very best to those in his care.

José earned his medical degree at the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos Facultad de Medicina, San Fernando in Lima, Peru, a place that shaped both his intellect and his lifelong commitment to healing. In 1990, he made Northborough, Massachusetts, his home—a home that would soon come to know him simply as “the town’s pediatrician.” With the support of UMass Memorial Health – Marlborough Hospital, he established his pediatrics practice at Northboro Pediatrics, beginning a decades-long partnership dedicated to the wellbeing of area children and families. To José, medicine was never only a career; it was his calling, his ministry. For more than three decades, he cared for generations of children with gentleness, patience, and joy. He approached every patient as if they were part of his own family, and in the eyes of so many, he truly became just that.

It was common, during family lunches or dinners in town, for someone to stop by the table with a smile and say, “Dr. Correa—you were my pediatrician!” Those encounters always seemed to fill him with quiet pride and gratitude, reminders of the many lives he had nurtured from childhood to adulthood.

José’s faith was the heart of his life. Each morning, before the day began, he made it his mission to share words of God’s love and encouragement with everyone in his contact list—a simple act that uplifted many and reflected the care and spiritual warmth that defined him.

Outside of medicine, José was an avid soccer fan and a proud lifelong supporter of Alianza Lima, cheering passionately for his team no matter the distance from his beloved Peru. He was also a dedicated Boston Celtics fan, having been a talented basketball player himself during his years at Universidad de San Marcos. His laughter was contagious, and his sense of humor and warmth could light up any room. Whether watching a soccer match, spending time with friends, or sharing stories, his energy and joy drew people in and made every moment brighter. He truly was the life of every party.

He is survived by his children, José and his wife Deborah, Miguel, and Lily, who were the joy and light of his life. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters Nelly and her husband Steve, Dora, and Violeta; his brother Tito and his wife Lillian; and was predeceased by his dear sister Gina, whom he loved deeply. He leaves behind many close family members and dear friends who will miss his contagious laughter, guidance, and strength.

At the culmination of his remarkable career, Dr. Correa was honored with the Chiron W. Smith, M.D. Outstanding Physician Award at UMass Memorial Health – Marlborough Hospital, where he served as chief of pediatrics. The award recognized his lifetime achievements in medicine and the immeasurable impact he had on his community. It was a fitting tribute to a man whose life’s work was defined by compassion, humility, and excellence.

Dr. José Correa lived his life in service—to God, to his family, and to his community. His kindness endures in the children he healed, the faith he lived, and the love he gave so freely. For all who knew him, his memory will remain a source of strength and inspiration.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Jose’s memory to Children of Peru–an organization dedicated to providing healthcare and education to impoverished children in Peru.