Irma "Helen" Elena Velazquez was born in Guanica, Puerto Rico on May 25, 1937. She entered Heaven's gate on October 28, 2020.

A loving mother, wife and grandmother. Helen was a remarkable cook and enjoyed preparing meals for her family and friends. She would make any meal feel like a holiday. Helen always presented herself with grace and beauty, not only on the outside but, inside as well. Her positive outlook, personality and deep faith were infectious.

She worked with pride and passion as a hairdresser for over 50 years in her home state of New York. She was a New York Yankee Super fan and a proud New Yorker at heart. She was very passionate of her Hispanic heritage, especially her music and love for dance.

Helen was survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Carlos Velazquez. She was also survived by her daughter, Lisa Sarmiento and her husband Ricardo Sarmiento, Jr. Her grandson (her "Nene") Christopher Sarmiento. Her sisters, Mirza Gutierrez, Diana Rivera, Epifania Rivera, Norca Riedl and her husband Adolf Riedl.