Maria (Elena) Delgado (94), lovingly known as “Quisqueya,” of Hartford, CT, passed away peacefully on the morning of December 19, 2025, surrounded by love and leaving behind a legacy that will live on for generations. She was born on September 5, 1931.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Joaquin Delgado; her beloved life partner, Benicio Vazquez; her son, Benicio Vazquez Jr.; and her grandson, Benicio Vazquez III, whom she carried in her heart every day.
Elena was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her daughter, Elena Vazquez; her son, Gabriel Vazquez; her grandchildren, Natanya Vazquez, Javier Vazquez, Adrianna Soldevila, Jocelyne Vazquez, Zulayka Soldevila, and Gabriela Vazquez; and her great-grandchildren, Janessa Marquez, Isaiah Moreno, Emerson Vazquez, Carter Santiago, and Easton Vazquez.
Elena was the heart of her family — loving, strong, and endlessly giving. Her smile was contagious, lighting up every room she entered and bringing comfort and joy to those around her. She had a gentle spirit and a warm, nurturing presence that made everyone feel at home.
She retired from Mode Art Jewelers Company after many years of dedicated work. Elena was an avid reader of El Vocero, a lifelong New York Yankees fan, a big Lionel Richie fan girl and was especially known for her delicious Spanish rice, which family and friends always looked forward to enjoying.
Elena’s love continues to live on through the family she devoted her life to. She will always be remembered, deeply loved, and dearly missed.
Services will be held on Tuesday December 30th at the Hartford Community Funeral Home, located at 380 Maple Avenue, Hartford, CT 06114, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Burial will follow at Mount Saint Benedict Cemetery, located at 1 Cottage Grove Road, Bloomfield, CT 06002.