Elsa Maria Gonzalez

Elsa Maria Gonzalez, 85, of Hartford, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 27, 2025 with her loving children by her side. She was predeceased by her husband, Pedro Gonzalez Lebron, who passed away on July 11, 2025. Born in San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico on April 6, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Vitorio Flores and Cristina Mojica. Due to a physical illness at the age of 12, Elsa was unable to complete school. Elsa became a self-taught seamstress, which became her passion. Elsa and Pedro married on December 23, 1967 at St. Peter’s Church in Hartford.

A loving mother and grandmother, Elsa will be forever missed by her daughter, Ana Gonzalez Hoskie, husband Cleo Hoskie and their children Jordan, Xavier, Gabriel and Xiana of Windsor, daughter, Veronica Gonzalez, ex son-in-law, John Vargas and their daughter Kyra of Bristol, daughter, Nazareth Gonzalez of Hartford and son, Anthony Gonzalez, of Hartford. Elsa was predeceased by two sisters, Gloria Flores and Candida Valentin. Elsa is survived by four siblings, Carmen Delia Flores of Wethersfield, Carmelo Flores of State of Washington, Felicita Flores and Ramonita Flores of Puerto Rico, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Elsa was a selfless, loving, and deeply caring woman, with an endless capacity to give love. In late 1980, she and her beloved husband Pedro made a life-changing decision to open their hearts and home to children in need. Through the Village for Children and Families, Elsa and Pedro became pre-adoptive parents, eventually adopting three children and creating a home built on compassion and warmth.

Elsa devoted her life to nurturing her children, ensuring they grew up surrounded by love, stability, and kindness. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the family she so lovingly built.

Elsa deeply loved all of her grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. She firmly believed that nothing could replace the love and care of family, and as such, she offered to care for her grandchildren herself—never believing in daycares. To them, she wasn't just a grandmother; she was Mama. Her home was their second home, a place filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Elsa loved to sew, and as a young teen, she earned a living by making clothes for people in her town. She continued sewing for her children as they grew up, but eventually, health issues prevented her from doing what she loved.

Elsa was a devout Catholic and raised her children in the faith. She was a parishioner at St. Peter's Church and participated in many church activities. She was part of the Women's group called "Las Señoras de la Milagrosa."

Elsa had a deep love for flowers and took great pride in her garden. She would spend countless hours under the hot sun, tending to her plants with patience and care, ensuring that every flower was perfectly maintained. Her garden was not just a beautiful space, it was a reflection of her dedication, love for nature, and peaceful spirit.

In Elsa's quality time, she enjoyed watching her Spanish shows like "Caso Cerrado" while enjoying her cup of coffee. Elsa never missed watching the UConn's Women basketball games on TV. Elsa was also an avid Red Sox fan. Elsa loved her dogs, Chyna and Kenny aka Cruzito.

Elsa loved life deeply and was not ready to leave this world. But the Lord, in His wisdom, has called her home. Mami, your work on earth is now complete. You are now reunited with Papi in eternal life, where love knows no end.

Mami, though we mourn your loss and miss you deeply, we continue to celebrate you every single day. The Lord truly blessed us with an extraordinary woman, a loving mother, a devoted grandmother, and a guiding light in our lives. Your legacy will live on in our hearts, and the memories you gave us will remain everlasting. You are forever loved and never forgotten. Elsa's family would like to extend a heartwarming thank you to her family and friends for all their love and support. Descanse en paz, Mami. Siempre estaras en nuestros corazónes. Te amo.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 10th at 10 a.m. at St. Augustine Church, 10 Campfield Avenue, Hartford. Everyone is asked to please go directly to the church. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Family and friends may call on Thursday October 9th from 5-8 p.m. at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield.