Monserrate Larraceleta

Mrs. Larraceleta, known to all who love her as “Tica”, was born in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico to her late parents, Jose and Mercedes. As a young woman, she met her future husband, Jose; at a club where after setting eyes on each other, both hearts knew they would spend their lives together.

Tica and Jose married in 1959, and four years later bought their home in American Venice, where they raised their family. Tica loved flowers and enjoyed crafting, especially ceramics. Her greatest passion outside of her family was her love of elephants, as she lovingly collected numerous pieces to create a massive collection that brought her such joy.

Predeceasing her is her beloved husband, Jose; her daughter, Aurora Taveras; her granddaughters – Katie and Christina; her son-in-law, Jeff Kelley; and all her siblings. Tica is survived by her daughters – Denise Kelley; Hortensia Larraceleta and partner, Ellen Quentin; Susana Larraceleta; Michelle Coffey and her husband, Frank. Also surviving are her grandchildren – P.J., David, Nicole, Jon, Danielle, Ariel, Terren and Jayden; her great-grandchildren – K’leigh, Shelby, Savannah, Isabella, Mailee, Jon, Anjelia, A.J., Tristan, Jazmin and Natalia.

Family and friends will gather at the funeral home on Sunday, from 2-4:30 and 7-9:30 p.m. On Sunday evening, a Funeral Service will be offered at 8:00 p.m. (There is no visitation on Monday). All will again gather at the funeral home on Tuesday morning for Morning Prayer at 11:00 a.m. The cortege will then depart the funeral home for Pinelawn Memorial Park in Farmingdale for a Graveside Service at 12:00 noon by clergy from Our Lady of the Assumption R.C. Church in Copiague.