Obituary of Cecelia Theresa Castro-Haye

Cecelia Theresa Castro-Haye, 78, passed away on March 22, 2024, at The Select Specialty Hospital in 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 The 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 in the health care industry at Doctors and Beth Israel Hospitals 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. She quickly found a home at Landmark Baptist Church, where being a member of the Senior Patriots gave her a world of joy. 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 was evident to all who entered her home, adorned with walls that seemed to breathe with photographic memories.

Each corner told a story, each frame a cherished moment captured in time. Despite the crowded walls she always found 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 could 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 was unwavering.

Her legacy extends far beyond her professional accomplishments, 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 has retired from this world, Cecelia’s spirit continues in 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 of 48 years 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