WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Vanessa Maldonado, age 52, of Waterbury, shares the news of her passing on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was the devoted wife of Edwin Soto.

Vanessa was born on August 5, 1973, in Waterbury, Connecticut, the beloved daughter of Gloria (Amengual) Maldonado and the late Felix Maldonado Sr. A cherished daughter, wife and mother, she was a beacon of warmth and kindness, leaving a lasting mark on all who knew her. A lifelong resident of Waterbury, she spent her early years as a dedicated hairdresser. She later transitioned into the vital role of a Patient Access Representative at St. Mary’s Hospital, where she became an essential first point of contact for patients and their families. In that position, she understood that the initial interaction often sets the tone for a family’s entire experience. With patience, clarity, and genuine warmth, she guided individuals through moments that were often stressful or uncertain. Her compassion and commitment to serving others were evident in every interaction. She treated each person with dignity and respect, recognizing that behind every form and every question was someone seeking reassurance and care. Through her steady presence and kind spirit, she helped ease anxieties and ensured that patients and families felt seen, heard, and supported. Vanessa found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was shopping at Walmart, enjoying her favorite crime shows, or taking unforgettable vacations, especially to Miami. She enjoyed quality time with her family and friends.

Vanessa will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she forever rest in peace.

Left to honor and cherish her memory and legacy, besides her loving husband of 20 years, are her children, Emelinda Lugo and Andre Maldonado, her siblings, Denise Amato and her husband Nicholas, Felix Maldonado Jr and his wife Leah and James Maldonado and her nephews; Jasir, Christopher, Anthony and Jacob. She also leaves behind many cousins and other extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her niece, Isabella Marie Amato.

Funeral Services for Vanessa will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. when a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Todos Los Santos Parish, St Anne’s Church 515 S. Main St Waterbury. Those planning to attend are kindly asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will follow in All Saints Cemetery in Waterbury. Relatives and friends may pay their respects and visit with the Maldonado family on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you on the funeral home website. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family, please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com.