Yvonne Velasquez

Yvonne Vanessa Velasquez January 8, 1973 – June 20, 2025 Yvonne Vanessa Velasquez, beloved mother, sister, daughter, cousin, niece, and friend, passed away on June 20, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. She was born on January 8, 1973, in Brooklyn, New York, and throughout her life also called Chicago and Virginia home before settling in Orlando. From a young age, Yvonne lived with physical pain that would follow her throughout her life. Despite this, she was a firecracker of a child—full of boldness, joy, and a whole lot of mischief. I know we all either have or have heard the stories. Her personality always shone brightly, undimmed by the challenges she faced. Her body often betrayed her; her spirit never did. She endured quietly and courageously, rarely allowing others to see the true extent of her suffering. Peace may have eluded her in body, but she created it for others in her presence, her laughter, and her love. Yvonne worked diligently until she was no longer able to. Her most recent role was at a cancer medical center, where she greeted patients with warmth and grace. After becoming disabled, she remained optimistic and full of light, never allowing her circumstances to define her or darken her outlook. Her greatest joy and purpose were her children, and she dedicated herself wholly to helping them become the best versions of themselves, always with love, never with judgment. She was endlessly supportive, deeply empathetic, and incredibly proud of the people they are. Yvonne had a love for movies, music, singing, and dancing. Her laugh—so contagious and full of life—could send a room into fits of joy. Just the thought of it could make you smile. She also gave herself to others, volunteering with Give Kids the World and Sea Cadets with her sister. Always finding ways to show kindness, even when her own reserves were low. She was, in every sense, the most loving, selfless, and luminous soul. She is survived by her two children, Vanessa Victoria Velasquez and Walter Eugene Lewis III; her siblings, Yvette Victoria Velasquez and Angel Velasquez Jr.; and her mother, Maureen Alberta Gray Velasquez. She leaves behind 11 aunts and uncles and a whole host of cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Angel Velasquez Sr. Yvonne’s strength, love, and light live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her. Her journey had been filled with obstacles and strife, but all she gave out was joy. Now we hope and pray that she finally knows the peace that she so deeply deserves.

Yvonne Velasquez

January 8, 1973 - June 20, 2025