Middlesex – Estella De Leon Velarde, 77, passed away after a brief illness on Sunday Morning, July 6, 2025 in JFK Medical Center, Edison.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Estella immigrated to the United States in 2017 with her beloved husband, Geronimo. Together, they embraced their new life while cherishing regular visits back to the Philippines to spend time with family and friends.

Estella had a deep love for cooking, especially traditional Filipino cuisine. She took great pride in preparing meals for her family, often experimenting with new recipes and shopping daily for the freshest ingredients. A devout communicant of Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church in Piscataway, Estella’s faith was an important part of her life. She was also a devoted grandmother, playing an active role in the care and upbringing of her grandson.

Surviving are her husband of 49 years, Geronimo; three daughters Majorie Marania and husband Fructuso, Melanie Asisand Michelle Tierra and husband Ryan and sister, Trinidad De Guzman. 

She will also be missed by her three grandchildren, Miguel, Mateo and Lucas along with family and friends in the United States and Philippines. 

Family and friends may gather on Friday, July 11, 2025 from 6PM-8PM and on Saturday, July 12, 2025 beginning at 9:30AM in the Piscataway Funeral Home, 18 Stelton Road, Piscatway NJ 08854.

A funeral mass will be offered on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 10:30AM in Our Lady of Fatima RC Church, 501 New Market Road, Piscataway NJ 08854 following cremation in Rosehill Crematory, Linden.