Carmen Velez

Carmen Iris Velez, also affectionately known as “Wela” to those who loved her, transitioned peacefully on Saturday, December 14th, 2024, at the age of 81, surrounded by family and loved ones in the comfort of her home. Born on March 18th, 1943, in Santurce, Puerto Rico, Carmen was the daughter of Carmen Rodríguez and Manuel Velez and one of 13 siblings. From a young age, she was no stranger to hard work, spending her youth cleaning houses and caring for children to help support her family. Carmen’s journey took her from Puerto Rico to New Jersey, and later to New York. During her years in New York, she welcomed six more children into the world (Evelyn, Junior, Marilyn, Juan, Carmen and Roberto), adding to her two oldest, Luis and Raquel. Carmen later moved the family to Columbia, South Carolina, where they settled down and grew - both individually and as a family. Wela had a way of making everyone around her feel special, often with her sharp sense of humor and quick wit that could bring a smile to anyone’s face. Her love for family was always at the heart of her jokes, making every moment together unforgettable. Wela was a remarkable woman who found joy in the simplest of pleasures - from cooking meals that turned into treasured family gatherings, dancing to her favorite songs, watching TV, sewing homemade items that were both beautiful and functional (or just because), and spending time with her family. Above all, Wela loved spending time with the children - she could always be found with them, telling stories, playing, or simply enjoying their company. And let’s not forget the bonchinche—Wela was the queen of gossip and never missed an opportunity to catch up on the latest news, especially if it involved her grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Carmen is survived by her children Luis Hernandez, Evelyn Fonseca, Marilyn Fonseca, Manuel Fonseca Jr., Juan Montes and Roberto Montes; Her grandchildren Annette, Cynthia, Luis, Sylvia, Marilyn, Anna, Nyome, Madia, Carlos, Amanda, Annaliese, Olivia, Evy, Josie, Salina, Siarra, JC, Amanda F., Josh, Jordan, Natalia and over 20+ great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her two beloved daughters, Carmen Franco, who passed away in June of 2017, and Raquel Padilla, who passed in March of 2019. Though they are no longer with us, Wela is reunited with them in spirit. Carmen was a woman of strength, resilience, and an incredible sense of humor. She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. While we mourn her passing, we celebrate the vibrant legacy she leaves behind—a legacy filled with joy, laughter, and a family who will carry her spirit in everything they do. Rest in peace, Wela; you will be deeply missed and forever remembered.