Israel Velázquez Verá, also known as "Molly" (Moji), passed away on March 18, 2026, at the age of 77 in Petersburg, Virginia.

Born on January 18, 1949, in Yauco, Puerto Rico, Israel was the beloved son of Nicolás Velázquez and Sofía Vera. He spent many years working in construction and as a cook. Israel was known as a hardworking man and a true "jack of all trades," able to fix, build, or figure out just about anything. He took pride in his work and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Israel found joy in gardening and the simple pleasures of life. He will be remembered for his humor, his warmth, and his ability to make others feel cared for and supported. He was not only a devoted father to his own children, but also loved his nieces and nephews as his own.

He is survived by his loving wife, Guillermina Mercado Ortiz; his children, Israel Velázquez, Jr., Cynthia Velázquez-Peterson (Hillerson Peterson), Amabel Velázquez (Fredie Rivera), Myrna Enid Velázquez Rivera, and Israel Velázquez Rivera.

His cherished grandchildren, Ariyell Peterson, Hillerson Joseph Peterson II, Krystofer Button, Hillery Peterson, Zanya Umpierre Velázquez, Zhané Umpierre Velázquez, Natalie Izquierdo, Stephanie Izquierdo, Anthony Velázquez, Sebastian Encarnación, Dereck Velázquez and Angelina Peterson; great grandchildren, Camren Buttone, Kaeshon Buttone, Iuliano Visesio, Paulo Visesio, Jr., London Engram, Gabriela Santiago, and Kaleia Visesio. His family was his greatest joy, and he took immense pride in each and every one of them.

He is also survived by his siblings, Gloria Velázquez, Doris Velázquez, Alicia Velázquez, Magdalena Berdecia (Juan Berdecia), Rebeca Velázquez, Eduardo Velázquez and Damaris Velázquez. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicolas Velázquez and Sofia Vera; his sisters, Adriana Velázquez and Diana Velázquez. As the only son among his siblings, his sisters held a very special place in his heart, and their bond was one of deep love and lifelong connection.

Israel will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love he gave so freely, the lives he touched, and the laughter he brought into the world. Though his passing leaves a deep void, his legacy will continue to live on through his family and all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Thursday, March 26, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5828919?fl=so&fe=fs