Elba I. (Colon) Velez

 Elba I. (Colon) Velez, 87, a beloved homemaker and cherished matriarch, passed away on April 1, 2025, at the Odd Fellows Home, surrounded by her adoring family. Born on March 9, 1938, in Hatillo, Puerto Rico, Elba dedicated her life to nurturing those around her, with family being her utmost priority.

Elba's passion for cooking and her ability to host memorable gatherings during Christmas highlighted her profound love for family. Her devotion to caring for her loved ones was evident to all who knew her, and she took great pride in her role as a mother and grandmother. She will be remembered for her warmth and love.

She leaves many behind that will miss her dearly including her children, Luis Velez (Alcia) of Worcester, Rafael Velez of Tennessee, Wilfredo Velez (Raysa) of Worcester, Teresa Velez of Miami, Florida, Carmen H. Velez of Worcester, Ana Negron (Angel) of Worcester, Daisy Velez (Luis) of Worcester, Beatriz Bell of Worcester, and Marisol Prunier (John) of Spencer; her siblings, Angel Colon (Nelida), Rafael Colon (Nilda), and Maria Colon (Efrain) all of Puerto Rico; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Her sister-in-law, Marina and brother-in-law, Amelio also held a special place in her heart.

She was predeceased by her husband, Rafael Velez Molina; her daughter, Carmen E. Velez~Picard and her parents, Matilde Rios Reyes and Zoilo Colon Gonzalez. These losses were profound in her life, yet Elba carried forward with resilience, exemplifying the strength of family bonds.

Family and friends are welcomed to a celebration of Elba's life with visiting hours Sunday, April 6th from 1:00pm until 3:00pm at Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home, 61 Myrtle Street, Worcester. A funeral service will begin on Monday, April 7th in the funeral home at 11:00am. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery, 162 Webster Street, Worcester.

Elba's life was marked by love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family. As those who knew her gather to celebrate her life, they will undoubtedly remember her for the joy she brought to all and the legacy of love she leaves behind.