Francisca Ramirez

Francisca (Panchita) Ramírez was born on January 1, 1918, in Ciales, Puerto Rico to Encarnacion and Augustino. She was married to the love of her life, Emilio (Millo), who passed away at the age of 61; she never remarried.

Francisca began working at a young age; washing clothes and cooking to help support her family which limited her ability to get a formal education. Nevertheless, she was an extremely smart woman.   

In 1964 she became ill and was brought to Long Island, NY by her sister Lola to get medical treatment.   Not too long after that  she moved to New Jersey where she resided for the remainder of her life.  She worked as a cook for several years at La Ponceña  in New Brunswick, NJ. 

Francisca was blessed with 9 children, 30 grandchildren, 92 great-grandchildren, 44 great great-grandchildren and 2 great great great-grandchildren. She was a talented singer and passed that talent off to all of her children and most of her grandchildren.  She loved to play (and cheat at) the game Trouble! She loved to cook and make Pasteles.  Her favorite beverage was coffee, lots of coffee. She loved flowers and gardening, watching birds, going to the park, strolling through gardens, Niagra Falls (her annual trip) and eating vanilla ice cream.  Her favorite shows were the Lone Ranger, Golden Girls, Matlock and of course her church services. 

Francisca was raised Pentecostal and served God her entire life. She raised all of her children and grandchildren in the faith and reminded them constantly to follow Jesus.  She preached the Gospel everywhere she went and prayed over anyone and everyone. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 91. Her favorite praise was Hallelujah. Towards the end of her life this was the only word she spoke.  In fact, Hallelujah became her name at the Elizabeth Nursing Home where she took her last breath.  She was truly loved by all who knew her. She was a blessing and a true treasure throughout her 106 years of life. Her huge laugh and cackle will be forever missed. 

Francisca, Panchita, Mami, Abuela, Abuelita, Hallelujah! No matter what name she was known by, what she will be mainly remembered for is her love for her family and her unfailing faith and service to the Lord Jesus Christ.