Elsa Virginia Merola

Elsa Virginia (Rodriguez) Merola, 78, of Orlando, Florida, passed away on December 2, 2025.

Born in Lares, Puerto Rico, Elsa spent her childhood and young adult years in Elizabeth, New Jersey. She later made homes with her family in Tom’s River, NJ; Stuart, FL; Palm City, FL; Ft. Pierce, FL; Floral City, FL; and eventually Orlando, FL.

Elsa attended college in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and as a young adult worked for the Elizabethtown Gas Company in Elizabeth, NJ. After marrying the love of her life, Salvatore “Richard” Merola, she dedicated herself to raising her four children and creating a loving, structured, and supportive home. Education always came first in her household, and she was a devoted, involved mother—active in her children’s schools, a Cub Scout leader, and an enthusiastic planner of family travels. Her family was her life.

Elsa was a kind, funny, and strong‑minded woman—determined, outspoken, and always ready to share her thoughts with those she loved. She had a deep love for gardening, animals, and the peaceful farm life she later enjoyed with her husband in Floral City. Together, they were involved in the Cattleman’s Association, where Richard served as President and Elsa participated proudly. She was an avid reader, especially of mystery novels.

Faith was central to Elsa’s life. She served as a catechist at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Jensen Beach, FL. She also earned her Advanced Religion Certificate with the intention of becoming a youth minister, a testament to her deep faith and dedication.

Elsa treasured her grandchildren and loved every moment spent with them—laughing, teaching, and spoiling them at every opportunity.

She is survived by her loving children:

• Sarita (Merola) Miller and her husband, Daniel;
• Salvatore Merola and his wife, Melissa;
• Anthony Merola;
• Marlena (Merola) Welch and her husband, James.

Elsa’s beloved grandchildren are Ariana, Caleb, Sawyer, Brennan, Salvatore III, and Katarina.

She is also survived by her brothers George, Nelson, and Edwin, and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Salvatore (Richard) Merola; her parents, Eliezer Rodriguez and Maria Dolores Rodriguez; and her brother, Eliezer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.