Elvira Ruiz-Vazquez was born on August 20th, 1926 in Guayanilla and raised in Yauco, Puerto Rico in the barrio Sierra Alta. Married to Iluminado Ruiz for 35 years. They had ten children together and raised them in the barrio of Duey. Elvira and Iluminado and their children moved to the United States in 1974 for a better life. Elvira was widowed at 53 years old and continued to raise her younger children as a single mother. She dedicated her life to raising her children and grandchildren. She was a grandmother of 29, great-grandmother of 49, and great-great-grandmother of 6, they all knew her as “abuela”. She served as a homemaker, enjoyed to cook the family’s favorite (criollo) Puerto Rican cuisine, and felt most happy when surrounded by her family and music. Family was everything to her. She did a wonderful job raising a family with limited resources and support. Once her children were grown and out of the house, Elvira moved to an apartment by herself. Although she did not speak English, she communicated with others with her love and compassion. Elvira was an active parishioner at La Sagrada Family church formerly known as San Juan Bautista church. She was also an active member of the Hispanic Senior Center in which she led prayer often. Elvira was well known in the community not only for her kindness, but her children’s musical talents in the church and community. She was proud of her family and their accomplishments. She lived by herself in an apartment in Villa Mercede for 22 years. Elvira never wanted to impose on others and enjoyed her independence. As time progressed, she began to suffer from dementia and had to be removed from her apartment to live with her youngest daughter Marilyn and her family. She lived with Marilyn until her care became too challenging and was transferred to Eliza Jennings Nursing Home where she lived the remaining of her life. Elvira was a kind soul that was loved dearly by many. She had a contagious smile and laugh. She taught the family to live a simple life with love and laughter. Music was also a big part of her entire life that brought joy to her. As her Alzheimer’s progressed, music brought memories and comfort to her up until the last breath she took. Elvira passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy and special memories. She’s our matriarch that will forever have a place in our hearts.
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