Hortencia Barbara Velez ,76, of Lancaster, SC peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior, Thursday, September 10, 2026 at home surrounded by loved ones. She was born December 17, 1949 in Manta Manabi, Ecuador, daughter of the late Cristobal and Teresa Galarza. In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her 2 loving sisters and brother.

Born in Ecuador, Hortencia spent her early life in her homeland. Seeking new opportunities and a bright future she made a courageous choice to move to the United States at the age of 18.

Her American journey was a beautiful multi-chapter story. She first settled in New York where she married her husband and started her family. Ready for a new adventure and always in search for something better for their children her and her husband moved to Connecticut where they raised their family, bought their first home and spent many wonderful years together. Hortencia loved having a house filled with family and friends for the holidays or just because. Ready for a warmer climate and after many years of working hard running her housekeeping business, her and her husband moved to Texas to enjoy retirement life. Hortencia loved plants and could be found working in her beautiful garden and was awarded "Best Garden" in her neighborhood several times. In her final chapter, Hortencia moved to South Carolina to be closer to family, battle through several health issues and enjoy the love of her children and grandchildren.

Hortencia was a warrior of incredible resilience, faith and quiet strength. Most important to her was her family and her friends who became family. She will forever be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Gustavo E. Velez Sr.; sons, Gustavo E. Velez Jr and wife, Shirelena Velez, Anthony Velez and wife Alma Velez; daughter Christine W. Santagata and husband Joseph Santagata III; grandchildren, Kennedy Velez, Jacob Velez, Joseph Santagata IV, Hailey Santagata; and six siblings, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

A funeral mass will be will be held at Saint Matthews Catholic Church (8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28277) on Tuesday, September 15 at 11am. 

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all the hospice nurses especially Jessica and Melinda. Your compassion and supportive care you poured unto Hortencia in these last few months will not be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.