Rosa Mercado, affectionally called “Mama Bella” by her loving grandchildren, and “Chavela” by all others, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2022 at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York, surrounded by her loving children and family.

Rosa was born in the Dominican Republic on October 26, 1955, daughter of the late Raymond Mercado and Silvestrina Escaraman. She was pre-deceased by her son Ramfis Aquino. Rosa migrated to the United States at the age of 13. She lived in Bronx, New York for many years, then moving to Mt. Vernon, NY. She adjusted to the American culture, learning the English language quickly. She was educated in the New York school system. She was a phlebotomist, life insurance agent, tax preparer, and an Entrepreneur owning a home management company. Rosa was also a Real Estate Broker and Agent, who owned a Real Estate business.

Rosa was very family oriented. She had a unique, special bond with her children and was a devoted, supportive and companionate mother. Rosa had an unconditional love and bond with her brothers and sister. She had a special connection with her cousin, Johnny, who was her guide and helped her acculturate into the American culture. Rosa loved most being a Grandmother. She adored each and every single one of them and was proud of their accomplishments. She enjoyed telling them stories, teaching them about their culture, and “spoiling them”. Rosa will always be their “Mama Bella”. Memories she created will live on forever. Rosa also had a special, motherly love and bond with her nieces and nephews.

Rosa was an avid reader, she loved attending business seminars and yoga workshops. She enjoyed practicing yoga and meditation, antique shopping, thrift shopping, sightseeing and taking long road trips. Rosa was known to be generous, kind, and loving, impacting the lives of many friends and people in the community. She had a soft heart for the homeless providing them with warm blankets and food especially during Thanksgiving. Several times a year, Rosa would gather basic essentials and send to orphanages in the Dominican Republic. Rosa also had a passion for empowering woman.

It would be wrong to say that Rosa lost her battle to Cancer because she never stopped fighting. She was determined to stay strong in the midst of her illness. Through Rosa, we learned what resilience and perseverance really is. Rosa’s soul and spirit was so strong, she will live with us forever.

Left to honor her legacy and cherish her memory are her children, Alfonso Lora, Celia Lora, Ana Flamengo, Chateze Mercado, Victor Mercado, her grandchildren, Crystal, Brittnay, Alfonso, Justin, Deanni, Dalanie, Lahndon, Lance, Lanair, Livyana, Donovan, Charlize and Denver. She also leaves seven siblings, two daughters in laws, two sons in laws, four great-grandchildren, 24 nieces and nephews, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The family is remembering Rosa in a way that honors her spirit! Calling hours are on December 16, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Riverside Memorial Chapel, 21 Broad St. W, Mt Vernon, NY

Always remember Rosa as a free spirit, living life on her terms, and greeting each day, rain or shine, with a smile. Rosa’s quote “I believe it, I know and accept it”.

“Rise up, Angel of ours “Mama Bella”.