Georgina Ortiz Pagan

Georgina Ortíz Pagán, of West Haven died peacefully with her sons George and Luis by her side on January 11, 2018. Ms. Pagán was predeceased by her husband, Gerardo Pagán, her son Eduardo Pagán, and her 11 siblings.  She was born and raised in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico on February 12, 1917. 

She was an accomplished seamstress in Puerto Rico who also crocheted, did needlepoint, and created decorative items.  She followed her husband to New Haven in 1951, raising her family and continuing her sewing work. She moved to the Surfside Apartments in West Haven in 1981.  While at Surfside she became known as “Mama”, extending the unfailing kindness and care she showed her entire family to fellow residents. She was known for her Puerto Rican cooking and shared it widely.  She also mended other residents’ clothes.  She delighted in having family visit and always ready to feed whoever came through the door.  Ms. Pagán and her family joyfully celebrated her 100th birthday along with her Surfside family last year. 

Ms. Pagán leaves a large family who will miss her spirit and warmth. Her oldest son and his wife: George Ortíz (Wanda) of  West Haven, Luis Pagán (Kathleen) of New Haven, Israel Pagán (Santa) of Polk City, FL, and Samuel Pagán (Drusila) of Boca Raton, FL.  Ms. Pagán also leaves beloved grandchildren:  Lisa, George Jr, Michael, Shannon, Israel, Joyce, Edwin, Maria, Julitza, Yolanda, Jorge, Reynaldo, Debbie, Chrissy, Edward, Jr , Audrey, Lizbeth, Janisse, Lilly, Paul, Gerardo, and  Alyssa, numerous great-grandchildren,  nieces, and nephews

The family is grateful and appreciative for the caregivers who helped her in later life, particularly Adelaida Roman, Lourdes Rivera, Ana Roman, and Jenny Valencia. We also extend our thanks to the staff of Mary Wade Home, Yale New Haven Hospital-SR campus, and The CT Hospice in Branford.

Family and friends may visit the Keenan Funeral Home, 238 Elm St. West Haven Tuesday January 16, from 4 to 6pm.  A short service will begin at 6pm.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Wade House, 118 Clinton Ave. New Haven,  and to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd. Branford. |  |

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