Vilma Joyce Samuels

Vilma Joyce Samuels, born on April 4, 1936, in St. Thomas, Jamaica, W.I., was called to her eternal home on Dec 22, 2025. She was the beloved daughter of Roland Stanley Smith and Gladys Beryl Whitfield Smith. From her earliest days, Vilma's life was marked by grace, strength, and a deep sense of compassion. She brought light into every room she entered, and warmth to every soul she touched.

Affectionately known as “Blossom” or “Aunt Bloss,” a devoted mother, sister, wife, aunt, nurse and friend, she lived a life marked by quiet strength, grace, laughter, and unshakable faith in God.

Vilma had one son, Michael A. Cooper, with Joshua Alexander Cooper (deceased), and was later blessed with a loving marriage to Clifton Samuels, who predeceased her after ten wonderful years together.

Her journey through life was never easy, yet it was always guided by deep purpose and quiet strength. From Jamaica to Bermuda, where she worke don a U.S. Air Force base, Vilma carried with her an unshakable determination to create a better life. With the loving support of her cousin, Norma Williams (Aunt Lil), she took a brave leap of faith and moved to the United States, holding close her greatest pride and joy, her son Michael. As a single mother in a new country, Vilma faced countless challenges, but she met each one with resilience, grace, and love. She built a life from the ground up, first in Detroit and later in New York City, pouring her heart into both her son and her family. Her calling as a nurse gave her the drive to

work for over 25 years at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. She served with unwavering professionalism and boundless compassion. Her work was never just a job, it was a reflection of her soul. She healed with a smile, comforted with her words, and loved through her actions. Vilma lived to care for others, and in doing so, she left an indelible mark on every life she touched. She was a helper, a healer, and a nurturer.

After retiring, Vilma moved to Florida to be closer to family, continuing to place love and connection at the center of her life. She made countless sacrifices to ensure that Michael had everything he needed—not only materially, but through unconditional love, steadfast guidance, and unwavering support. Through her faith, discipline, and determination, Michael thrived, attending Fordham University on a full scholarship, an achievement that filled her heart with immeasurable pride.

Rest was never in Vilma’s nature. Even in retirement, she continued working in various hospitals in Florida, driven by an enduring call to serve others. She also poured her time, wisdom, and compassion into her community and church family at Holy Family Episcopal Church in Orlando. Her faith in Jesus Christ was the bedrock of her life. She did not simply profess her faith, she lived it daily, reflected in every word she spoke and every act of kindness she extended.

Vilma had a laugh that filled a room and a smile that made people feel seen and loved. She had a special way of making everyone feel like family. She was the kind of person who remembered your birthday, made you laugh when you needed it most, and always offered a prayer, a hug, or a helping hand.

To her family, she was the anchor, steady, wise, loving, and strong. To her friends, she was a blessing, a source of joy and light. To her community, she was a servant, humble, giving, and true.

Vilma is survived by her beloved son, Michael Alexander Cooper (Veronica), her sister, Verna (Patsy) Smith Miller, Step-Daughter, Jennifer Samuels Jobson, Grandchildren: Michael Alexander Cooper, Jr., Erica Suzanne Cooper, Steven Alexander Cooper (Eduarda), Step-Grandchildren Shaunette Rocheal Grant and Tatiana Elizabeth Jobson; Great-Grandchildren: Brittany Hines, Steven Alexander Cooper, Jr., who all were the joy and purpose of her

life. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and close friends, and others who were uplifted by her joyfu lspirit and loving presence.

She was predeceased by Clifton Samuels, Joshua Alexander Cooper,Wesley Smith, Hyacinth Smith Roberts, Fitzroy Smith, Elaine (Joy) Smith Ross, Daphney Smith Pettigrew, and a host of family and friends who were forever changed by her kindness, faith, and love. Her legacy will live on in the many hearts she touched.