

Born on May 7, 1931, in New York City to a single mother, Luisa Rivera, Esther was raised in Manhattan, where she developed the strength, determination, and vibrant spirit that would define her life. She pursued a career in nursing and worked at St. Luke’s Hospital in New York City as well as in private practice, dedicating herself to the care of others until 1959, when she chose to devote herself fully to raising her family after the birth of her first child. As a single mother raising four children, Esther met life’s challenges with remarkable perseverance, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Esther lived her life with compassion, resilience, and generosity. She was known for her wit, strong spirit, and joyful personality, often becoming the life of the party wherever she went. She had a gift for making others feel welcome and loved, and she was cherished by all who had the good fortune to cross her path.
Esther also devoted her time to her community as a “Volunteer Grandma” with the Rockland County schools, where she brought warmth and encouragement to countless Preschool children. In her personal time, she was an avid crocheter, player of computer games and enjoyed creating beaded jewelry by hand, sharing her creativity and talents with family and friends.
She is survived by her four children: Kim Del Rosario-Fonseca (Samuel), Denise Irizarry (Daniel), Salvador Del Rosario, and Joyce Del Rosario; her six grandchildren: Adam Astacio, Kiera Astacio Rojas (Ricardo), Elias Irizarry (Jessica), Joey Nuñez (Andrea), Gabriel Irizarry, and Bailey Nuñez; and her four great-grandchildren: Kayla Rojas, Elyse Rojas, Amaya Rojas, and Nathan Irizarry and one beautiful soul on the way.
Esther’s legacy lives on in the strength, humor, determination, and love she instilled in her family and in the many lives she touched throughout her long and meaningful life. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Services will take place on Friday, May 22, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Michael J. Higgins Funeral
Service. (newcitychamber.com)
In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider donating to The Esther Del Rosario Fund for Single Mothers
Venmo- @HopeOutLoudNJ
Zelle- [email protected]
Checks Payable to
Hope Out Loud NJ
725A Surf Ave. Beachwood NJ 08722
DONATIONS
The Esther Del Rosario Fund for Single Mothers - VenmoVenmo- @HopeOutLoudNJ
Hope Out Loud NJChecks Payable to Hope Out Loud NJ, 725A Surf Ave., Beachwood, New Jersey 08722
The Esther Del Rosario Fund for Single Mothers - ZelleZelle - [email protected]
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.18.0