Adelina (Gonzalez) Heredia

UTICA - Mrs. Adelina (Gonzalez) Heredia, a woman who was blessed with 100 years of life, went home to the Lord on Saturday, January 30, 2021. Peacefully she went to Jesus in the comfort and dignity of her home with her loving family who have always been by her side. Born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico on September 29, 1920, Adelina was the daughter of the late Juan Gonzalez and Mercedes Rodriguez. One of nine children, Adelina was sickly at first, but she survived and flourished. Although she never attended school, she had an uncanny ability with numbers. She grew to become a woman blessed with manual dexterity, skilled in sewing and embroidering by hand, and physical strength in working the land on the farm. First and foremost, she worked hard for the betterment of her family. Her family knew a simple life, but was inspired by their beliefs in hard work, humility, and being close to the Lord. A usual day ended with the recitation of the Rosary and rest from their diligent efforts. Adelina was married to Otilio Heredia, the love of her life. During their union she stayed strong and committed and had a charitable heart. Forgiving was primary in her life. The marriage brought her the blessings of her children who cared about her to this very day. Otilio passed away on April 24, 2000. Adelina was an impeccable housekeeper and a fabulous cook, and among the hustle and the bustle, there were always pots on the stove. She was the mainstay of her family and watched over her loved ones with a steadfast heart. They grew up in a time when they were proud to say that their “Mita” was always home! She had a peaceful way about her, and never knowingly disrespected anyone. Her journey in life was to raise and love a family, and she held that goal sacred to the very end. She expressed her love in such a beautiful way, that others admired her. She handled adversity with patience, kindness, and wisdom. Simultaneously, she cared for her husband and her own mother at a time when they both needed maximum care, which speaks volumes. Having raised her family, she continued to extend her benevolent heart by babysitting her grandchildren. She was keenly aware of personalities around her, and she worried about each member of her family. Her smile was engaging, but she always had a sense of how her family needed to be properly attired! Adelina was adept at dominoes, 4 players, 500 points,…and she often won! Her favorite television shows were The Price is Right and Tom and Jerry, and she loved music, especially religious, Spanish, and English songs, played very loud at high volume. Her 100 years of life brought her the glory of raising and being a role model for each of her kids. In turn, each of them honored her, loved her, and were dedicated to her in her time of need. She was never alone, because they wanted to be near her, always. Adelina’s acts of kindness were far-reaching. She personally hand sewed over 1,000 dolls and dresses and sent them to the Dominican Republic for the children, and she also donated monthly for the aid of those in need. Good works were always in her compassionate soul. Adelina was a communicant of Historic Old St. John’s Church and she knew the Lord, Jesus Christ, and lived his words, “Whatsoever you do to the least of your brothers and sisters, you do unto me.” Adelina is survived by her children and their loved ones, Josefina and Herminio Rivera, Rev. Antonia Cardona, Angel and Awilda Heredia, Maria Fuentes with whom she resided, Elvis Heredia and Nancy Colon, and the memory of her infant daughter, Otilia Heredia who preceded her; her 13 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Rosita Colon, Carmen Millet, and the memory of her infant sister, Doris Gonzalez. She was preceded by her brothers, Juan Gonzalez Jr., Manuel Gonzalez, Jesus Gonzalez, and Ramon Gonzalez, and her sister Ana Gonzalez-Velez. She will be remembered by her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and her dear friend Adela Cortes who was close to her heart. The family is grateful to Pastor Esmeralda Tavares for her prayers, visits, and true friendship; Doctors Hunt, Gomez, and Mathew for their medical expertise; the nurses and staff of the ER and ICU at MVHS at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their compassionate care; the personnel of Hospice & Palliative Care for the peace and guidance provided to Adelina and her family; and all the gracious churches who have been praying for the family. During this difficult time of gathering, Adelina’s family will celebrate her life at a private time. She will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery. During this time of social distancing that we are all experiencing, please take a moment to connect with Adelina’s family through the “Memories” section of her obituary.

Adelina (Gonzalez) Heredia

September 29, 1920 - January 30, 2021