Nilsa Maria Perez passed away on November 18, 2025, at her home in Newark, New Jersey, surrounded by those who cherished her most. Born on May 9, 1961, in Jersey City, Nilsa lived a life defined by faith, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to the people she loved.
Nilsa was the daughter of the late Lucia Maria Reyes and Angel Perez Serrano, and was predeceased by her beloved siblings Maria, Margarita, and Charles Perez. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.
A devoted mother, Nilsa leaves behind her daughter Lucia Atkinson, who was her pride and joy, and her adored grandchildren Lucia and Yesiand Cruz, who brought warmth, laughter, and purpose to her days. She was the loving wife of Evelio Torres, her devoted companion and source of strength.
Nilsa is also survived by her cherished siblings—Luis, James, Evelyn, Eliecer, Alberto, Ivan, Ruperto, Maribel, Angel, and Ricardo—each of whom held a special and irreplaceable place in her heart. She is further survived by a large extended family of nieces and nephews who loved her deeply and found in her a nurturing presence, a guiding spirit, and a source of endless affection.
Faith was at the center of Nilsa’s life. As a dedicated member of Iglesia Unidos Por La Fe in Newark, NJ, she lived her belief in Jesus with sincerity and devotion. Nilsa prayed with and for others at every opportunity, offering comfort, compassion, and unwavering hope. Her spiritual strength was the light to all who knew her.
Nilsa faced her battle with cancer with remarkable courage, fierce determination, and an unshakable faith. She was a survivor in every sense—resilient, steadfast, and full of grace. Even in her most difficult moments, she remained a source of encouragement and love, teaching those around her what it truly means to persevere.
To meet Nilsa was to feel loved. She embraced every person with warmth, kindness, and sincerity. Her heart was vast, her compassion limitless, and her ability to make others feel seen and valued was one of her greatest gifts. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void, but her spirit, love, and legacy will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.
Nilsa will be missed beyond words. She leaves behind a family and community forever transformed by her love, her faith, and her beautiful soul.
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