Luz Raquel Herron

Luz Raquel Herron, lovingly known as Lucy, passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 9, 2026. She was 78 years old.

Born Luz Raquel Velez on June 14, 1947, in Cidra, Puerto Rico, to Angel Velez and Luz Maria Rivera, Lucy was raised in Lambertville, New Jersey, where she graduated from St. John's Catholic School. A devout Catholic, Lucy's faith was a quiet and steady presence throughout her life, shaping her generosity and her commitment to others. She went on to earn a degree in social work from Rutgers University and dedicated the early years of her career to service in that field. She later worked as a seamstress at Stanley Cleaners before retiring to devote herself fully to her family as a homemaker.

For 30 years, Lucy made her home in Ottsville, Pennsylvania. She found deep pleasure in the simple, beautiful things in life — the outdoors, hiking, her garden, and long bicycle rides. She was a devoted cook, an avid reader, and a creative spirit who delighted in arts and crafts.

She is survived by her life partner of 45 years, Steven Barany; her son, Jeffrey Albert; her brothers Rafael, Miguel, Robert, and Nelson Velez; and her many cherished nieces and nephews: Rebecca, Alicia, and Mariposa Velez; Maresa Velez-Lopez; Claire Medina-Velez and Carissa and Kyra Benner; Rick Gartner, Jr.; Eric Barany; Joseph Medina-Velez; and Nicky and Michael Lawson.

She joins in eternal rest her parents, Angel and Luz; her sister Elva Velez; her children Valerie and Mark Albert; and her nephew Brian Barany.

A private gathering will be held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Spina Bifida Resource Network, a cause close to Lucy's heart.

She spread her love everywhere she went. She will be forever deeply loved and missed by many, near and far.