OBITUARY OF CECELIA THERESA CASTRO-HAYE
Cecelia Theresa Castro-Haye, 78, passed away on March 22, 2024, at the Select Specialty Hospital, Orlando, Florida.
Cecelia was born on March 18, 1946, in Kingston, Jamaica. Her life’s journey led her to the United States in the early 1960s, where she embarked on a lifelong mission of care and kindness. Settling in Bronx, New York, she shared her life with her husband, Aston, and her son, Christopher, who later left home to serve his country in the Marines.
Cecelia’s heart overflowed with empathy, guiding her to dedicate her days to the service of the sick. For almost four decades, she worked for Beth Israel Hospital and was unwavering in her commitment to healing and comfort. Patients were not just recipients of her care; they were embraced by her genuine love and concern. When she retired and hung up her scrubs she moved to Kissimmee, Florida, where she quickly found a home at Landmark Baptist Church. She continued to have a great impact on everyone around her, always looking for ways she could be of service, and feeding the homeless was one of her most recent passions.
Beyond her noble profession, Cecelia possessed a gift that added beauty to the lives of those around her. Cecelia possessed a smile that lit up any room and a laugh so infectious it had everyone joining in.
A master of crochet, her nimble fingers wove threads of love into intricate patterns, crafting blankets and christening outfits with meticulous care. Each stitch was a testament to her generosity and the joy she found in creating something special for others.
Her love for family and friends is evident to all who enter her home, adorned with walls that seem to breathe with photographic memories. Each corner tells a story, each frame a cherished moment captured in time. Despite the crowded walls, she always finds space for one more snapshot, ensuring that no memory is left behind. She had a vivid recollection of each photograph and the occasion, which she was always happy to share.
After every family gathering, we can anticipate the arrival of an envelope in the mail containing pictures from the latest celebration. She may not have fully embraced the digital age, preferring the nostalgia of printing photos at the pharmacy and mailing them to us, but her dedication to preserving memories is unwavering.
Her legacy extends far beyond her professional accomplishment, but in the way she lived her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. She reminds us of the profound impact one person can have on the world simply by sharing their gifts and spreading love.
Though she may have retired from this world, Cecelia’s spirit continues into the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. In every warm embrace, in every handmade treasure, her presence lives on, A beacon of light and love for generations to come.
Cecelia is survived by her devoted husband, Aston Haye, her loving son, Christopher Brown and his wife, Hollyn, cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Harper, and Ashanti. She leaves behind her siblings, Mildred (Joyce), Roy, Fay, and Pamela, along with Pamela’s husband, Derrick, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless others who were fortunate enough to have been touched by her kindness and grace throughout her lifetime.
VISITATION
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Landmark Baptist Church
2020 E Hinson Ave
Haines City, Florida
FUNERAL
12:00 pm
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Landmark Baptist Church
2020 E Hinson Ave
Haines City, Florida
INTERNMENT
1:00 pm
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Forest Hill Cemetery
Grace Ave
Haines City, Florida
