Celia Carbonell

Celia Carbonell, born October 14, 1939 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, passed away on May 12, 2026, at the age of 86. She is the daughter of Rafaela Colón and Erasmo Colón. Celia will be remembered with deep respect and lasting gratitude by all who had the privilege to know and love her.

She is survived by her six children, Carmen Milagros, Diana, Rafael and his wife Helena, John, Lizette, and Nancy Ivelisse, her 11 grandchildren, Christina Nadeen, Steven Edgar, David John, and his wife Jennifer Danielle, Dayna Lynne, Natrall Born, Austin Gregory, Shakilah and her husband Daniel Thomas, Rafael Esteban, Shanel Ann, Oscar Andres, Kendall Robert, her 2 great-grandchildren; Paris and Phaeton, her Aunt Carmen (Ata) Colón, and her cousins Helena and Ileana, and many other beloved family members who impacted her life.

Throughout a life marked by devotion and steadfast faith, Celia carried a quiet strength—brave in the face of life’s demands, resilient through its changes, and faithful in the commitments held closest. A devoted presence within a large family, Celia was both cherished and beloved, offering loyalty, honesty, and wise counsel with a gentle steadiness that brought reassurance to others.

Celia’s compassion and generosity were felt most clearly in the warmth of welcome extended to family and friends. Hospitable and thoughtful, Celia had a gift for creating a comforting home—one shaped by elegance, care, and an eye for home design that reflected both grace and purpose. She always made sure that everyone that visited her home, never went without a meal that was made with her loving hands. Cooking was her unique craft. Hard-working and selfless, Celia gave freely of time and energy, often placing the needs of others before personal comfort, especially when it came to her children, grandchildren, and pets.

A lover of music in many forms, Celia found joy in expression and performance. As a dancer and singer loving both latin music and ballads, Celia brought feeling and presence to every note and movement, and those moments revealed a spirit that could be both gentle and spirited, with a feisty spark and a humorous touch that brightened the room.

Deeply spiritual and devoted to her beliefs and service as a Jehovah's Witness for over 50 years, Celia lived with reverence and conviction, God fearing and guided by enduring values. In quiet ways and in daily acts of kindness, Celia was inspirational, and demonstrated love towards friends, family, and neighbors.

Celia will be truly missed. Her memory will remain a lasting comfort, carried forward by all who loved her and by the many lives touched through Celia’s kindness, devotion, and enduring example.