Flavia Eneida Velez Robles (October 5, 1942 – April 1, 2023)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Flavia Eneida Velez Robles, beloved matriarch and Patrona of her family, on April 1, 2023, in Cayey, Puerto Rico. Born in Cidra, Puerto Rico, Flavia spent the majority of her life in Worcester, MA, and Cidra, PR, with time in Hartford, CT as well.

Flavia’s life was a testament to her strength, love, and dedication to family and community. She was a foster mother to over 25 girls. She was an active member of St. Peter’s Church for over 30 years, where she served as part of the Eucharist Ministry and Leaders and Faith. Flavia’s selflessness shone through her work at the church’s food pantry and her involvement in the nightly prayer group conference call.

She was awarded the Key to the City of Worcester in 2005 for her 30+ years of service at Worcester Comprehensive, a daycare where she had a profound impact on countless lives. An avid gardener and traveler, Flavia explored Europe, Asia, and South America, always embracing new experiences.

Flavia married Gilberto Laza in 1962 and together they had three daughters: Flavia Laza (John Rivera), Blanca Laza (Boris Velez), and Yildiz Laza (fiancé Kelly Aviles). Flavia was the proud grandmother of Shaliea Laza, Alexander Laza, Niko Guadalupe, Tyanna McBride, and Yeidie Rivera. Her great-grandchildren, Sarai Nergararian, Samiya Baez, Mateo Velez, Kenelo Laza, Nala Judge, Jayce Goodrich-Rivera, and her great-great grandson Braydon Nergararian, all held a special place in her heart. Flavia’s love and support extended to her many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Throughout her life, Flavia embodied empathy, love, and determination. As a role model to her family and community, she taught the importance of helping others and living with purpose. Her resilience and tenacity were evident in her time working at the welfare office in Hartford in 1969, and her devotion to her faith never wavered.

The wake will be held at Callahan Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home, 61 Myrtle Street, Worcester, MA 01608, on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 5:00PM to 8:00PM. The funeral mass will be on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 11:00AM at St. Peter’s Parish, 929 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01610, with burial immediately following at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton, MA 01612.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Flavia’s memory can be made to the St. Peter’s Church Food Pantry, as a tribute to her tireless efforts to support her community.