Apolonia Maldonado

Apolonia Maldonado, 89, formerly of East Granby, passed away peacefully at Saint Mary Home in West Hartford on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Apolonia was born on January 5, 1936, in Toa Alta, Puerto Rico, the daughter of the late Fernando and Angelina (Ortiz) Maldonado. Her family moved to Connecticut in 1965. She was employed with Hi-G Inc. for many years as a laborer.
Apolonia was a loving daughter, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend. Her family will never forget her radiant smile, kind eyes, and the joyful laugh that filled every space. Her greatest joy was her beloved family: her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved to cook and share meals, not only with her family but also with neighbors, always offering food as a gesture of care and kindness. Attentive and compassionate, Apolonia had a gift for making others feel seen and valued. She showered those around her with warmth, often saying "que linda," "que bella," or "te quiero mucho." She never hesitated to tell loved ones, friends, and even her nursing staff, "I love you." She also found joy in music, especially IL Divo and the rich sounds of string instruments. She enjoyed pairing neutral tones with a pop of color and jewelry that reflected her vibrant spirit.
Apolonia was a devout Catholic whose faith guided her throughout her life. As a young woman, she dreamed of becoming a nun, but her desire to raise a family led her to embrace motherhood while remaining deeply devoted to the Church. She attended Mass faithfully at many parishes, including Our Lady of Sorrows and St. Joseph Cathedral in Hartford. Her love for the Church shone through her service to it. She sang in the choir, helped with Bible study classes, and volunteered at countless parish events, often lending her time to support both the practical and spiritual needs of the community. She passed this devotion on to her children, involving them in church activities, youth programs, and Bible study, ensuring that faith remained a strong and guiding presence in family life.
Apolonia loved traveling to Puerto Rico to visit her family, trips she always looked forward to with joy. She cherished time with her parents and siblings, especially her sister Carmen, with whom she shared a special bond. Together, they coordinated visits and maintained close ties between relatives in Puerto Rico and those living stateside, ensuring the family stayed connected across the miles.
Apolonia is survived by her five children, Margarita Diaz of East Granby, David Diaz of Hartford, Miriam C. Valdes of Manchester, Francisco Diaz of Hartford and Fernando Diaz of Hartford, her four grandchildren, Melinda Charatain and her husband Clarence of El Paso, TX, Christopher Diaz of Manchester, Jaison Valdes of Manchester and Angel Valdes of Manchester, her five great-grandchildren, Saniyah, Lailah, Ariana, Azalea and Karter.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Yolanda Diaz.
Apolonia's family will receive friends on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 5-7 PM, with a Prayer Service at 7 PM, at Carmon Funeral Home, 807 Bloomfield Ave., Windsor, CT 06095. Her committal service will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 11 AM at Elmwood Cemetery, 13 Nicholson Road, East Granby, CT 06026.