Hilda Esther Valentin

Hilda Esther Ayala Valentin, 78, wife for 30 years of the late Cesar Vega, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Hartford Hospital after a long illness.

Born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico on July 21, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Ruben N. Ayala and Gerarda Valentin. Hilda was a longtime resident of Meriden.

Hilda was an avid seamstress who especially enjoyed sewing gowns for her family and friends, doing alterations and repairs, and even sewing wedding dresses. She found great joy in spending time with her family and treasured family barbecues, picnics, and gatherings.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Leididiana Vega; two cherished grandchildren, Leidy Soto and Jordian Soto; and her great-granddaughter, Luna Soto. She is also survived by her two sisters, Norma Perez and Sary Castro, and several nieces and nephews including Esmeralda Ayala. She was predeceased by her son, Alfred Vega, and her brother, David Ayala.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Tuesday, February 3rd, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at John J. Ferry & Sons Funeral Home, 88 East Main Street, Meriden, CT 06450. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by burial at Walnut Grove Cemetery. For online condolences, please visit jferryfh.com.