Vera Castillo

Vera Castillo — devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and cherished friend — passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, at the remarkable age of 95. She leaves behind not just a family, but a living inheritance: the gifts of faith, resilience, courage, patience, discipline, and the quiet art of truly listening.

Guided by her daily devotion to the Divine Mercy chaplet, Vera's faith was not merely practiced — it was lived in every act of love. She was the steady, graceful center of her family, and that love expressed itself in countless ways: crocheted blankets made with patient hands, gardens alive with flowers, birds, and butterflies, beloved pets Paco the duck and Zena the dog, and homes she transformed into places of beauty and warmth. Above all, it lived in tables set with care — fresh flowers, her finest china, tamales, and herbs grown or gathered with intention — food that nourished not just the body but the soul.

Vera was a tireless and devoted caregiver. For 28 years she cared for her husband Rodolfo with grace and unwavering dedication, and gave herself just as fully to her own mother and other family members in their times of need — not out of obligation, but out of love. In earlier years she was present at every school event, ball game, and dance recital, and proudly supported her husband and brothers in their pursuits of local public service.

What made Vera extraordinary was that she never stopped growing — or playing. Sharp of mind and joyful of spirit until her final days, she followed world events, embraced new ideas, and mastered her beloved iPad with genuine enthusiasm. She taught her grandchildren and anyone willing to sit down with her how to play poker and pulla, and how to make tamales from scratch — and she made every lesson feel like a celebration. Her greatest thrill was standing before a Van Gogh painting, a reminder that beauty moved her all her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Rodolfo Castillo, her son Daniel Castillo, her parents Eduardo and May Arévalo, and her three brothers and sister.

She is survived by her son Rudy Castillo (wife Vivienne); grandchildren Miguel Castillo, Carissa Babicke (three great-grandchildren), Annalise Castillo (one great-granddaughter), Tessa Castillo, and Marco Castillo.

Her beloved 1st granddaughter Cindy Varela.

Her daughter Monica Castillo (husband Stephen Villaescusa); grandchildren Marisa and Monique Villaescusa.

Her granddaughter Dana Castillo (daughter of Daniel and Norma Castillo-Ley).

Her son Tony Castillo (wife Monica Mackover); grandson Drew Castillo.

Vera Castillo did not simply live a long life — she lived a full one. She tended her garden, fed her people, prayed without ceasing, and loved without condition. She taught us by example that courage is quiet, that patience is a form of grace, and that the most beautiful life is one poured out in service and joy.

"Her children rise up and call her blessed." — Proverbs 31:28