Matilde Pellicier

Matilde Pellicier (Matty), formerly Matilde Ortega Rios, of East Harlem, New York, passed away on Friday, May 3rd, 2024. She was 91 years young. Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico on August 8, 1932, she traveled to East Harlem, New York in her mid-twenties. She never had the opportunity to meet her mother, Tomasa Rios Ortega because she passed while giving birth to her beautiful daughter. Her father, Gracio Ortega, raised her as a single father with the help of his siblings and other family members. In spite of growing up motherless, Matilde was graced with the ability to love, nurture and raise many children with a kind heart, positive approach and humor. Those fortunate to have been in her care included her Goddaughter, Mildred Pinott, her husband’s grandson, Jorge Pellicier II and his children, Jorge Pellicier III., and John Paul Pellicier. She was akin to a second mother to many of her friend’s children. A blessing to all. She had a limited formal education, second grade, but was home-schooled by her father and other relatives. Her limited education did not impede her wisdom or social skills. She was beloved and a source of comfort to friends, neighbors, and strangers. She met her husband, the love of her life, Miguel Pellicier (Mickey), at the age of 26. The couple married on February 9, 1962, and lived in East Harlem, New York. While they had no biological children of their own, they agreed that Matilde could care for her Goddaughter, Mildred, to enable her best friend, Ana Baez, to work as a single mother without worry. Four years later they assumed custody of her husband’s grandson, Jorge and raised him to maturity. Later in life, she assumed joint custody of Jorge’s sons, Jorge Jr., and John Paul Pellicier.

 Matilde was a model housewife and mother who was dedicated to the every need of her husband and the children in her care. Her home was spotless, filled with the aromas of incredibly delicious Puerto Rican food (and lots of it) and a gathering place for weekend socials with friends, neighbors and family. Her cooking was stellar and mentioned to this day. Her strong work ethic and moral code were exemplary. She loved deeply, but no one could mess with her family or her. Her commitment to family was incomparable. Family was defined both by blood and choice. Consequently, she was always surrounded by family and friends. And she was a “Dancing Queen,” never one to lose her rhythm until her passing, nor her sense of humor and love of sweets. She was prayerful and deeply devoted to the Virgen of Guadalupe.

 Matilde (Matty/ Mama/ Mami Matty) will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, relative and loyal friend. While she will be dearly missed, her family and loved ones find comfort in the many treasured memories she leaves behind. She loved and was deeply loved in return. 

Matilde (Matty) is survived by her grandson, Jorge Pellicier II and his wife, Lily her extended family; great grandsons Jorge Pellicier III. and John Paul Pellicier and his partner, Toni; and her Goddaughter (“Daughter”) Mildred Pinott and her family,. She will be missed by her loving caregiver, Miriam Cordon, who was constantly with her and loves her as a mother. Her nurses, particularly Ms. Sonia and Aisha, and all the CNAs, too many to name, that sang and danced with her daily for the last two years. And thank you to Bella Ruiz who cared for her through most of the pandemic along with Miriam. She is predeceased by her husband, Miguel Pellicier and her best friend, Ana Baez, her Goddaughter’s mother.

 A celebration of Matilde Pellicier’s life will take place at the Pelham Funeral Home located at 64 Lincoln Ave., Pelham NY on Thursday May 9, 2024, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Interment will follow at Saint. Raymond Cemetery, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Section. 

For more information or to leave a condolence please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com