Northampton, MA – Cecilia (Celia) Ann Vera
Celia Vera died peacefully at home, surrounded by her children and extended family, after a long, challenging illness.
The third of 6 children, Celia was raised in New Bedford. In high school Celia was an outstanding athlete, playing Varsity in 4 sports. Summers were spent on Martha’s Vineyard which remained her favorite spot where she returned with her family annually.
After graduating from Mt Ida College, Celia lived briefly in Burlington, Vermont. She had many friends within a community of feminist activists. Celia moved to Northampton in 1981 where she built a community of beloved friends and family. She was well known in the Women’s Softball and Bowling Leagues, bringing equal shares of playfulness and competitive skill to both. She worked in the food service industry for many years; known for her engaging, gregarious, and efficient nature. She was proudly named ” Valley Server of the Year.” In 1988 she began administrative work in non-profit social services supporting clinical services for vulnerable children. Between 1993 and 1999, Celia and her then partner Jaime welcomed their three children, Simone, Elliot, and Davis, into their loving family. Celia loved her children fiercely and was so proud to be their mother.
In 2001, Celia was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that profoundly impacted her health. She was fierce and resilient, fighting for her survival every day and enduring tremendous challenges since then. Her children were her main purpose and motivation.
Her entire family is grateful to the dedicated and skilled caregivers from Victory Home who enabled Celia to be in her own home, with dignity, until her last breath. Celia is survived by her children, Simone Caudill (Russell), Elliot Caron-Vera, Davis Caron-Vera, her grandchildren Eloise and August Caudill, her beloved sisters Lynn, Louise, Anne and Ellen (Keith), her nieces and nephew Joan, Ava, Norman and Isla, her dearest friend Karen DeSalvio, Jaime (the children’s’ other mother), and the extended Caron Family. Celia is loved by so many and will be greatly missed. She is finally free of pain. She will be with us always.
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A gathering to celebrate Celia will be held in Northampton at a later date. A notice will be published in the Gazette the month prior or send your text to 802-363-3133 to be notified directly.
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