Manuel Velez
In Loving Memory of Manuel Velez
December 31, 1941 – June 23, 2025
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved patriarch on June 23, 2025. Born on December 31, 1941, he brought light, strength, and love into the lives of everyone lucky enough to know him.
He is survived by the love of his life and wife of nearly 60 years, Evelyn Velez, with whom he built a beautiful legacy of love and resilience. Together, they raised three cherished children: Caridad Velez-Louissaint, Edward Velez, and their beloved son Manuel Velez Jr., who sadly preceded him in death just last year. The depth of that loss was immense, and now, father and son are reunited in peace.
He was a proud and loving Welo (grandfather) to Evelyn Joly, Jonathan Saez, Kristina Velez, Oceani Velez, and Gina Velez; and a great-grandfather to Tristan Joly, Luca Joly, Gilbert Mendez, Geo Mendez, Gavin Mendez, Victoria Saez, Elena Saez, Juliette Saez, Keyanna Johnson, Kiara Johnson, Elijah Johnson, and Easton Johnson.
He also leaves behind the extended family who chose to be part of this joyful, spirited circle: son-in-law Daniel Louissaint, daughter-in-law Nilda Velez, and grandsons-in-law Nicolas Joly and VitoMendez.
A proud Mets and Jets fan, he was a true lover of sports, was always up for a softball game and loved fishing. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life: playing lotto, dancing, and listening to oldies and Spanish music. In his youth, he even sang in a doo-wop group, a glimpse into his lifelong love of music.
Though he carried himself with a tough exterior, those who knew him best knew the boundless tenderness he held for his family. He was our protector, our strength, our example of grit and loyalty. Through trials that would have broken most – Guillain-Barré syndrome, paralysis, heart attacks, and kidney issues – he fought with unwavering strength, always wanting to come home to his family. He never gave up, and he never stopped loving us.
He was our rock, and we adored him beyond words. His legacy lives on in each of us: in our laughter, our resilience, and the deep love we carry for one another.
Rest well, you have earned your peace. Now in the arms of your son and forever in our hearts.