Cecilia Benitez Sanchez, 97, born December 19, 1926, to Anselmo Benitez and Mercedes Sanchez in Aibonito, Puerto Rico.  She was the beloved wife of the late Hipolito Burgos. Cecilia longtime Worcester resident and former business owner from Puerto Rico. She recently has peacefully passed away surrounded by some of her family in Louisiana on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, after a brief period of failing health. Cecilia is now resting in peace with many loved ones, such as her parents, her son Elliot Burgos and late husband Hipolito Burgos.

Cecilia was a very social and loved woman, who enjoyed socializing with her peers and loved one. She was a part of St Joan of Arc church, where she was a very active member in the Las Damas de el Sagrado Corazon de Jesus. Cecilia was also part of the adult day program, Living Well Center where Cecilia was able to do her favorite activities, such as playing dominoes, creating crafts, knitting, and bingo. Cecilia was also very proactive with her family where she enjoyed socializing, watching her family grow, cooking for them, playing dominoes, and enjoying laughter.

Cecilia is survived by her loving children, Carmen Burgos of Puerto Rico, Olga Burgos and her husband Luis Rodriguez of Louisiana and Milagros Burgos-Cruz and husband Lic. Pablo Cruz of Puerto Rico, as well as her twenty grandchildren who she adored, along with her fifty-four great grandchildren and thirty-one great-great grandchildren. She was also very popular in her community where she leaves behind numerous friends who will miss her dearly.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 8:30am-10:00am at MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 am at Saint Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln Street, Worcester with interment immediately following at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.

Our loving Cecilia, how much we will miss you. You have left a mark on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting you or even encountering you. Your presence was always bright and pleasant to be around. The way you were always able to bring your loved ones together and bring a smile to everyone’s face was truly lovely. We inevitably have to say goodbye to you, until we are able to meet again in the eternal life. We will hold on to your voice, your hugs and your presence until we meet again. We promise to never forget you or take for granted the time we spent with you.