Ligia Velez

Ligia Ursula Valle Velez, of Hollywood, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 91. She was born on July 11, 1934, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, to Jose Miguel Valle and Beatrice Morales. In 1952, at 18, she attended her first dance, where a young man named Ismael Velez spotted her and asked her to dance. It was love at first sight. They married in 1956 and built a life centered on family, hard work, and devotion to one another. After a brief period in Queens, they moved to Rosedale Gardens in the Bronx. Ligia was the last of the beloved "Rosedale Moms," who, along with the Dads, watched over all the neighborhood kids as if they were their own.

A devoted mother to her two sons, Ligia worked tirelessly alongside Ismael to provide them opportunities they never had themselves, including Catholic schooling that helped shape their lives. But the real foundation came from home. Ligia gave her sons the values that mattered - work hard, take care of your family, and always be there for the people you love.

She and Ismael enjoyed life fully, attending their share of parties and traveling the world whenever possible. Later in life, cooking became one of Ligia's greatest passions. Her arroz con gandules, flan, and coquito were legendary. But what made her special was that she knew exactly what each family member loved to eat - including her five grandchildren.

She also loved music. Vicente Fernandez reminded her of the many happy years she had with Ismael, and when she needed a lift, El Gran Combo would instantly change the mood of the house. Ligia was known for her unbelievable memory and strong will. People were amazed by the level of detail she included when sharing a story.

She is survived by her two sons, Ismael Velez and Jeff Velez; her five beloved grandchildren - Armando, Anthony (his wife Alyssa and great granddaugher, Sienna), Veronica, Alyssa, and Jessica; and the mothers of her grandchildren - Liz, Cynde, and Ginette. She had two brothers - Mikey and Nego, who have passed. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ismael, who passed away three years ago. They were married for 67 years. Ligia will be deeply missed. Her love, strength, and example will stay with her family forever. They take comfort knowing she has been reunited with her husband, who welcomed her with a smile.