Elsa Lugo, born on April 1, 1952, in Cidra, Puerto Rico, peacefully departed this world on December 8, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer. Elsie was the cherished daughter of Francisco Lugo and Felicita Lugo Perez.
Elsie is survived by her three children: Elsa Hernandez and her cherished grandchildren, Traviss Santos and Callista Santos; Magdiel Hernandez and his children Magdiel Hernandez Jr, Shanique Hernandez, and Nysha Hernandez; and Luis Hernandez. Additionally, she leaves behind four nieces, whom she raised as her own: Sabrina Serrano, Jessica Lugo, Felicia Lugo, and Tina Lugo. Elsie took immense pride in considering their eight children as her grandchildren.
Born as the sixth child in a family of thirteen siblings, Elsie faced life with an unyielding spirit. She weathered the pain of losing five of her siblings, Rafael A. “Tato” Lugo, Luis A. “Chan” Lugo, George “Gorgie” Lugo, Maria Marcela Lugo, and Maria Antonia Lugo. Elsie is survived by Eva Nelly Lugo, Francisco “Yiyin” Lugo, Juan A. Lugo, Olga Iris Lugo, Efrain “Tito” Lugo, Heriberto Lugo, and Jose A “Joe” Lugo.
Elsie was a woman of remarkable strength and independence. She was not one to shy away from challenges, and her resilience was evident throughout her life. Quick to come to the aid and rescue of her loved ones, Elsie stood as a steadfast protector for her family.
A lover of nature, Elsie found solace in gardening and took pleasure in tackling do-it-yourself home repairs and projects. She took pride in caring for her two grand “fur-babies”: Chance and Miss Olivia. She was a woman of action, never relying on anyone, especially men, to fix her car or handle challenges she could conquer herself.
Described by those who knew her best as stern, decisive, and determined, Elsie was someone who never held back. Her fierce dedication to protecting her own was unwavering, and she was a force to be reckoned with in the face of adversity.
Elsie’s legacy lives on through the strength she instilled in her family and the resilience she exemplified. In celebrating her life, let us remember the woman who, against all odds, stood tall and proud, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and memories she created throughout her remarkable journey.