William Garay- Rivera

It is with heavy hearts that the Garay- Rivera family announces the unexpected passing of their soulmate, father and brother, William Garay-Rivera, 49, of Waterbury.  William was born March 26, 1975 in Ponce, Puerto Rico, a son of Rosa Rivera and the late William Garay – Monsanto. 

During  his youth, William  trained for the Triathalon for the Olympics.  While growing up in Puerto Rico his family, the Garay’s, were well known in Ponce for their horse drawn carriage rides around the city.  Throughout his life, he enjoyed nature and being in the outdoors. 

After meeting and falling in love with Elizabeth, their family occasions centered around hiking, spending time in nature and grilling.  The births of his two children Sybelle and Derian were his best days.  He was a patient and loving father.  While growing up, the kids have great memories of their father insisting that everyone spend time outside hiking and exploring.  Always patient, William applied his skill and love of gardening to growing bonsai trees.  The bonsai tree symbolizes harmony, balance, peace and good luck- all the beauty he now enjoys in heaven.   He will be truly missed by all who were blessed to love and know him.

William is loved and mourned by his forever love and partner Elizabeth Velez of Waterbury and their children  Sybelle and Derian Garay.  He is also survived by his mother Rosa Rivera and brother Orlando Alberty and sister Rosimar Alberty as well as many nieces and nephews.  William is predeceased by his brother Christopher Alberty.

A funeral mass for William will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 11:30am at St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Church, 515 S. Main St., Waterbury.  Burial will immediately follow at New Pine Grove Cemetery, Waterbury.  Friends and family are invited to gather with William’s family on Friday, April 12, 2024 from 9am to 10:45am at Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect. Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting and caring for William’s family throughout this difficult journey of grief.  You are invited to share your favorite photos, memories and words of comfort on this website on William’s Tribute Wall.

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