Edith Lelia Nieves Aponte, born in Naranjito, Puerto Rico on October 7, 1932, passed away peacefully on Christmas day, December 25, 2024, at Carolina East Hospital, New Bern, NC. Also known affectionately as "Mama," Edith had a long and fulfilling life and was loved by many. To all, she offered a warm, charitable and caring heart. Many, indeed, would be hard-pressed to return the love she gave so freely. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Norfolk and enjoyed many activities with her church group!

Edith moved to New York City as a teenager where she met her husband, Rafael Laracuente. They were married in 1954 when she was 21 years old and together, they raised four kids in and around the New York area. She recently moved to New Bern with her daughter to be closer to family.

Mrs. Laracuente was predeceased by her devoted husband of 57 years, Rafael Laracuente, two sisters and a granddaughter. Surviving are her sister Luz Hernandez and husband Mario, her daughter Judi Cramer and husband Tom and her three sons, Ray and his wife Annette, John and his wife Tina and the youngest Hector Laracuente. Edith is also survived by seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the First Baptist Church of Norfolk .

Visitation will be held at the Moritz Funeral Home in Tappan, NY Friday, January 10, 3-7pm. A celebration service of her life will be held, also at the Moritz Funeral Home, Saturday, January 11, 10am with burial immediately afterwards at the Tappan Reformed Church Cemetery.