Fort Lauderdale, Florida– It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing to the eternal life of Gladys Vélez Rivera, a devoted Catholic, mother of four, grandmother of three and beloved wife. She left us peacefully on July 21, 2025 at the age of 82. She was a beacon of love, strength, and unwavering support for her family and all who knew her.

Born in the San Juan, Puerto Rico. From a young age, she exhibited a nurturing spirit and a profound dedication to others, qualities that would define her life. Glady’s greatest joy and most enduring legacy were her four beloved children; Raquel, Marta, Gladys, and Ernesto. She poured her heart and soul into raising them, instilling in each a sense of faith, kindness, and responsibility. Gladys reveled in every milestone, every triumph, and every shared moment with her children, always offering a listening ear, a comforting hug and motherly advice. We will always remember her smile and care in the need of others, her profound faith and her devotion to the Virgin Mary that always filled the home.

Beyond her role as a mother, Gladys was also a dedicated caregiver and community volunteer. She found fulfillment in volunteering her house for the family gatherings, the Church’s Community Rosary Group and Bible reflections. Gladys also leaves behind her grandsons Gabriel and Alexander, her granddaughter Isabella, her daughter in law Kariel and her sons in law Jorge and Daniel, including a host of nieces, nephews and friends who will dearly miss her. Gladys was preceded in her passing by her beloved husband Ernesto Rivera Rodríguez and by her beloved daughter Gladys Ivette.

A memorial service to celebrate Glady’s life will be held in Puerto Rico at a later date to be announced to invite friends and family to attend and share their cherished memories.

Glady’s unwavering love, gentle spirit, and profound impact will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. May her memory be an enduring blessing. She will be always deeply missed, loved and never forgotten.