It is with deep love and gratitude for a well-lived life that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Iluminada Altagracia Amaro de VanderHorst. She transitioned peacefully, surrounded by her daughters and Joanna (granddaughter) on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the age of 78. Iluminada was born on November 17, 1946, in Guazumal Abajo Tamboril, Dominican Republic, to the late Jose Federico Amaro and Felicia DeJesus Lizardo de Amaro. As the third oldest of her parents' seven children, she was a loyal and loving sister to Fanny Enelda Amaro de Vasquez, Socorro Esperanza Amaro, Paulino Federico Amaro-Lizardo, Jose Manuel Amaro-Lizardo, and Porfirio Federico Amaro-Lizardo. She was predeceased by her brother, Rafael B. Amaro-Lizardo on August 31, 2020.
Iluminada was truly an independent woman, full of confidence and fierce honesty. Her vibrant sense of humor could light up any room, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was never afraid to speak her mind, and she living life fully and unapologetically in her own unique way.
Throughout her life, Iluminada cherished her friendships, creating bonds that stood the test of time. She found peace in the serene beauty of the ocean and joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her enthusiasm for the game of Bingo was unmatched, and she was a true aficionado. Additionally, she had an appreciation for reading, crafts, painting, and the arts.
Iluminada legacy lives on through her three daughters: Maritza Almodovar (partner, Eduardo Polanco) of Lawrence, Massachusetts, Anabel Almodovar Diaz (Arthur) of Manassas, Virginia, and Candice Maria VanderHorst of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Jessica Felicia Soto, Jeremiah Hakeem Rodriguez-Schwartz (Nicole), Joanna Leanna Rodriguez-Schwartz, Jorge Luis Soto, and Juanjose Cabrera.
Iluminada spirit continues through her seven great-grandchildren: Janiyah Rose TeArt, Malia Jolie Golden, Josiah Hakeem Rodriguez-Schwartz, Shiloh Maria TeArt, Alana Dove Rodriguez-Schwartz, Isaiah Valentino Soto, and Amyr Rahman.
As we remember Iluminada, let's celebrate the wonderful memories we shared with her and the mark she left on our lives. We will forever hold her memory in our hearts and celebrate the remarkable life she lived.
