Today, we honor and remember our mom, Rachel Calzada. She was born in Puerto Rico and came to New York City in the 1960s, chasing a better life. It wasn’t easy—she faced struggles with language, work, and raising a family in a tough city. But no matter how hard it got, she never gave up on us.

Mom gave everything she had to her children. She worked hard, sacrificed, and taught us the values of strength, love, and dignity. But her heart didn’t stop with just her family—she volunteered with the Salvation Army, feeding the homeless, giving to others even when she didn’t have much herself. That was just who she was: generous, selfless, and full of compassion.

And if being a mom was her greatest role, being a grandmother brought her the deepest joy. Her two grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she spoiled them with the same love and patience she gave us.Our mom’s life was not easy, but it was full of meaning. She showed us what resilience looks like, and she left us with a legacy of kindness and strength. We will miss her every single day, but we’ll carry her love with us forever.

Rest in peace, Mom. We love you—and we’ll make sure your grandchildren always know how special you were.