Ely Velez

Ely Velez passed away on January 22, 2021 shortly after her 56th birthday.

Ely made her family her priority.  She devoted herself to her family and had a blissful 24 years of marriage with her husband, Hector Velez.  They had four children and one grandchild.

She is survived by her children, Katrishia Velez, Prescilla Velez, Alexie Velez, and Onyx Velez.  She also leaves behind two sons-in-law Adrian Thomas and Alexander Moore, and her only grandchild Titan Elijah Thomas.  In addition, she leaves a family in the Philippines, four siblings Estrella Parma, Elizabeth Remoto, Edwin Pena, Eriberto Pena, and a host of nephews and nieces.

Ely strove to be the best mother and partner in life, and her dedication and example were the rock of the family unit.  She taught her children the importance of the family bond and taught them by example to lead lives of faith and righteousness.  These lessons have helped develop a strong family unit and a sense of togetherness that will live on beyond her.

Everyone who met Ely remarked on her smile, and she could light up a room with it.  She was kind and welcoming to anyone who darkened her doorway, and her hospitality was a source of pride and joy.  Coming to visit the house meant there was good food aplenty, and everyone was expected to take food home.   She also loved to learn and was always challenging herself to learn new things and new skills.  At the time of her passing, she was working on getting a certification for online marketing, just because she thought it was interesting.

In her professional life, she worked at Seiren North America in the Accounting department for six years.  Prior to Seiren, she also worked at Lowes Hardware and Buena Vista University.  Every place she worked, Ely left lasting friendships and good memories.

In the fullness of time, we will learn to live with the pain of her passing, but she will be missed and the memories we have of her will be cherished by those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Hear my cry, O God; Attend to my prayer.

From the end of the earth I will cry to You,

When my heart is overwhelmed;

Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

For You have been a shelter for me,

A strong tower from the enemy.

I will abide in Your tabernacle forever;

I will trust in the shelter of Your wings.

Psalms 61 1-4

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.