WATERBURY - It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Milagros Rivera, age 86, of Waterbury, shares the news of her peaceful passing on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Waterbury Hospital. She was the beloved widow of Mr. Carlos Rafael Pagan, to whom she had been married for 62 years.

Milagros was born on January 20, 1940, in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico, the daughter of the late Eliseo Rivera and María Inés Pérez Milagros. She attended local schools in Puerto Rico and moved to Waterbury, Connecticut, in 1993 in pursuit of a better life for her family. Milagros dedicated her life to her family as a homemaker, creating a warm and loving environment. She was well known for her incredible culinary skills, particularly her delicious pasteles, which brought joy to many gatherings. Milagros was an avid reader and found solace in her daily prayers. Above all, she cherished spending time with her family and friends, who were the center of her life.

Left to honor and cherish her memory are her children: Carolina Pagan, Carlos E. Pagan, Rosa M. Pagan, Carlos A. Pagan, Rosa “Milita” Pagan, Joan Pagan, and Carlos G. Pagan, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also leaves her brother, Fernando Rivera, along with many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her two children, Carlos R. Pagan and Alba Milagros Pagan.

A Memorial Gathering for Mrs. Rivera will be held on Friday, April 24th, 2026, from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main Street, Waterbury. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of her family. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Milagros to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.