Carmen Luisa Ortiz Merced

Carmen "Guilla" Merced, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and aunt, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on May 4, 2025, in Bridgeport, CT, at the age of 93. She was born on November 28, 1931, on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico in the town of Aguas Buenas. Carmen carried with her a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that will forever resonate within the hearts of her family and friends.

Carmen’s life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to her family. As a strong-willed individual with a vibrant and social personality, she lovingly took care of those around her, becoming a dedicated wife to her late husband, Santiago "Chago" Merced for over 53 years and a nurturing mother to her three children. The youngest of 7, she was predeceased by her son Hector Merced, as well as all three brothers and two sisters. Her greatest pride stemmed from her role as a mother, grandmother and aunt, where her connection with her daughters, Norma Merced Texidor (Carlos) and Elizabeth Merced Vazquez (Hector), and her grandchildren, Carlos Javier Texidor and Eric Texidor, highlighted her deep love and devotion. She was also a beloved sister to Esther Ortiz and cherished her many nieces and nephews, being actively involved in their lives and upbringings.

Carmen’s home was one filled with warmth and joy, where traditional Puerto Rican cuisine flourished under her skilled hands. An outstanding cook, she especially excelled in preparing pasteles and other traditional Puerto Rican dishes that brought family and friends together around the table. Carmen also loved to express herself through music and dance, favoring the lively rhythm of Latin music, particularly salsa. She danced with the exuberance of someone who knew how to celebrate life, embodying the joy that music brings.

Beyond her culinary talents and her passion for dance, Carmen found great pleasure in gardening, nurturing sunflowers and vegetables, particularly corn and tomatoes with tender care. Her love extended beyond her plants, as she was an ardent admirer of animals, especially her beloved cats throughout the years and our family parrot, Cuca. Prior to health issues, Carmen was actively involved in her community, participating in St. Mary’s Church and the East Side Senior Center, where her vibrant spirit touched the lives of many.

In honoring Carmen’s memory, we remember a woman full of life, whose laughter, warmth, and nurturing nature will be deeply missed. Her daughters would like to express their gratitude to the wonderful staff at Mozaic Senior Life-Sadie House for their nurturing support and 24-hour care in her last years. Her viewing will be held on Thursday May 8, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Friday, May 9 at 11:45 AM at Funeraria Luz De Paz, located at 426 E. Washington Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06608.  A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Augustine Church, at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow immediately after at Mt. Grove Cemetery, 2675 North Avenue, Bridgeport, CT.

Carmen Merced leaves behind a legacy that will live on through the love she shared and the many lives she touched, reminding us all of the power of family and the beauty of a life well-lived.