Elena Maria Soraire

Elena Maria Soraire, 82, of Sunnyside, New York, went to be with her Lord on October 18, 2026. She was a cherished wife, sister, mother, grandmother and friend. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Her life was a rich tapestry of experiences. Born on August 26, 1944 in Santiago, Cuba, she spent her childhood as the youngest of three sisters in a house full of love, raised by her parents German and Emma Herrera. She would later follow in the footsteps of her sisters Hortensia and Isabel when she emigrated to the United States. Elena came to the US in 1973 with her mother after spending time with close friends in Mexico. She settled in NYC as so many of her friends from Cuba had also done. These friends who were a part of her past, were also a part of her future and remained close, supporting each other throughout their lives.

It was in New York City that she met Martin who would become her husband and the love of her life. Elena and Martin were married for 53 years. Together they weathered all that life challenged them with and made many happy memories together. Elena and Martin welcomed their son, German, into the world in 1974 and raised him with love, faith, and family at the core of their relationship. Elena was proud of her son and never missed an opportunity to hug him tightly. Later, Elena rejoiced in the birth of her granddaughter Theresa, who became a central part of her world and spent as much time with her as possible.

For each person who entered her life, Elena found love and gave of herself generously. Anyone who knew Elena would say that food was her love language. She made the most amazing Cuban style beans, onion rice, flan, milanesa, and so many other dishes. If you asked ten people what their favorite was, you would get ten different answers, but one common thread, her food will be missed and her smiling face serving it will be missed even more.

Elena loved to celebrate seasons and holidays. She transformed her apartment for every occasion. Elena didn’t just put up a Christmas tree, she wrapped the bookcases in Christmas paper, placed nativities everywhere, set the table with Christmas tablecloths, put out holiday throw pillows and decorated every inch. She also remembered every person, having a gift for even the receptionist at her doctor’s office. At Easter, the whole apartment became an oasis for bunnies, chicks, and eggs. At the core of her being was her faith.

Elena was active in her community at St. Teresa’s RCC. She was a Eucharistic minister for the parish and served in that role for many years. She supported her husband Martin as he became Deacon and together they shared the bonds of their faith and practice.

Elena and Martin approached life as a team, supporting each other, and renewing their vows on their 50th Anniversary. As Elena struggled with her health, she leaned on her faith and Martin. Elena is survived by her husband, Martin Soraire; her sisters, Hortensia Pedrotti and Isabel Herrera; her son German Soraire and his wife Jacqueline; and her granddaughter, Theresa Soraire. Elena’s legacy extends far beyond that circle as she has touched the lives of so many and will be remembered with love.

Visitation will be held at Kennedy-Roth Funeral Home, 41-45 58th Street, Woodside, NY 11377, US, on October 22, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Mass Of Christian Burial will take place at St. Teresa's RCC, 50-20 45th St., Woodside, NY 11377, US, on October 23, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery, 225 Brentwood Ave., Bayshore, NY 11706, US, on October 23, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.