Elena Ysolina Fernández Ávila de Sacerio

La Habana, Cuba – Orange City, Florida

Elena Ysolina Fernández Ávila de Sacerio passed away peacefully in Orange City, Florida. Born in La Habana, Cuba, she was the youngest of three children of Emilio Federico Fernández Herrera and Sixta Graciela Ávila Dome de Fernández.

Affectionately known as "Yso," Elena graduated from the Universidad de La Habana in 1950 with a degree in chiropody. She and her husband, Miguel Ángel Sacerio, emigrated from Cuba during the 1960s in hopes of providing a better future for their family. After years of separation due to immigration restrictions, the family was finally reunited in the United States in 1970. A woman of deep faith, Elena and her husband were devoted members of the Catholic Church and credited their safety during their years in Cuba and beyond to the grace and protection of their Lord and Savior.

After settling in New York, Elena began a long and fulfilling career in healthcare administration, working first at Kings County Hospital and later at Coney Island Hospital. Following her retirement, she dedicated herself to serving the Church, ministering to the sick and dying, and actively participating in parish life.

Elena was also an avid Mahjongg player and traveled to compete in tournaments. After her husband's passing, she embraced her love of travel, visiting Jerusalem, Greece, Malta, Spain, Italy, and Rome—where she had the honor of an audience with Pope John Paul II.

She lovingly cared for both her mother and husband in their final years; they passed away just six days apart in 1996.

In 2014, Elena moved to John Knox Village in Orange City, Florida, where she enjoyed an active lifestyle filled with Mahjongg, Mexican Train, and Wii Bowling. She continued her ministry through St. Ann's Catholic Church in DeBary, visiting nursing home residents—until she eventually became one herself. She entered the nursing home at John Knox Village in 2020 following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Elena was predeceased by her parents; her brothers, Emilio and Adolfo Fernández; her sons, Miguel Ángel Jr. and Alejandro Eduardo Sacerio; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her daughter, Alina Graciela Sacerio-Polak (John); grandchildren Michael, Alex, Justin, Thomas, Sean, Jacqueline, Rebecca, William, and Christian; numerous great-grandchildren; and her nephews, Dr. Henry Sacerio (Gladys), Gustavo Sacerio (Sandy), and niece, Eloisa Sacerio.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire staff of Majestic Oaks at John Knox Village and to Halifax Hospice for their devoted and compassionate care.