Carmen L Velarde

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Carmen, who peacefully left this world on August 5, 2023, at the age of 86. She was a cherished, devoted, and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Her legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will forever remain etched in our hearts.

Born on September 21, 1936 (October 3) in Puerto Rico, Carmen relocated to NY in the mid 1950’s. Despite facing many obstacles, she remained strong and optimistic. She was known for her strength, humor, and her ability to overcome life’s challenges.

As a wife, Carmen shared a bond with her husband Victor (Coco). They met in 1971 at the Spanish American Institute in New York while learning English, and their love stood the test of time, a beacon of support and companionship that weathered many storms and celebrated many joys.

As a mother, Carmen nurtured her children with boundless care and compassion. She dedicated herself to their growth, always offering her love and support. Her wisdom and encouragement helped shape their lives and values, ensuring that her legacy would be carried forward through generations.

The role of grandmother and great grandmother brought immense joy to Carmen's life. Her interactions with her grandchildren and great grandchildren were marked by laughter, stories, and cherished moments. 

Though Carmen's physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear. As we celebrate her life and mourn her passing, let us remember the lessons she imparted: to be proactive not reactive, always be happy, and always save for a rainy day.

Carmen is survived by her husband Victor Javier Velarde, Sr., her children Damian Noel Borges, Edgardo Borges, Sheila Schultz, Ricardo Borges, and Victor Javier Velarde III. 

A viewing will be held on August 14, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Crabiel Parkwest Funeral Chapel, 239 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Carmen’s life will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel RC Church, 75 Morris Street, New Brunswick, NJ. Interment to follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery, New Brunswick, NJ

In the tapestry of life, Carmen's thread will forever remain woven into our hearts. May her soul find eternal peace, and may we carry forward her legacy of love. Rest in peace, dear Carmen.