Celia Vela The angels of our Lord took Celia Vela's soul on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 to be with her Heavenly creator and her loved ones who have gone before her, including her daughter, Josefa Vela Hernandez. Celia was born on February 28, 1926 in Laredo, Texas to mother, Tiburcia Aguilar and father, Anastacio Aguilar. Celia is the last of her siblings to pass over to the other side. They include, Anastacia Aguilar, Jesus Aguilar, Epigmencio Aguilar, Matilde Aguilar and Hortencia Aguilar. She is survived by her children, Oscar Vela Jr., Juan Vela, Guadelupe Vela and Maria Vela Ochoa; her 19 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren. Also survived by her brother, Valentine Aguilar. Celia worked as a Social worker, activist for female rights and a teacher's aid. She was very active in the Hispanic Community helping people adjust to the new life in Illinois. She drove people to doctors' appointments, school office and translated for them to help get their kids enrolled in school. She would bring them food, clothing and even taught them how to read and write the English language. She was an active member of Bethel Pentecostal Church in Blue Island, IL. She continued community and outreach work there. She was also a member of their choirs that traveled the country. Her favorite passion was going door to door witnessing about the second coming of Jesus Christ. Celia was a kind, funny, smart and giving human and mother. She was passionate about life and serving Jesus. She will be missed greatly. Private funeral services for Celia will be held at the Farkas Funeral Home, 3201 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet. Interment to follow at St. Benedict Catholic Cemetery in Crestwood, IL. For more information, please call 815-725-0100 or visit www.farkasfuneralhome.com