Ms. Pilar Vazquez was born on 19 February 1916 in San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, as one of fifteen children born to Pedro López and Encarnación Serrano. Thirteen of those children survived into adulthood.

In 1944, she left Puerto Rico for New York City and began a new life chapter marked by determination, hard work, and hope. In time, she married Tomás Vazquez, and together they raised three sons: Thomas, Wilfredo, and José. Pilar instilled in them the same values of unity, love, and perseverance that had guided her since childhood.

Once her children were in school, Pilar entered the workforce and contributed her talents to several factories across New York. She helped manufacture lamps, umbrellas, and toys. Her steady work supported her family and reflected her unwavering commitment to providing for those she loved.

She took great pleasure in puzzles, word searches, and Bingo —pursuits that kept her mind keen and her spirit buoyant.

When asked about the secret to her long life, Pilar said: “Take care of yourself. Make sure you stay healthy, walk every day, and do not smoke or drink.” When asked about an advice for the younger generations, she shared a message that reflected the heart of her life’s philosophy: “Make sure you love yourself and your family. Family comes first above all.”

At the time of her 110th birthday, she was the matriarch of a large family, comprising seven grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren, with two additional great-great-grandchildren on the way.

She currently lives in Manhattan, New York, United States.

https://longeviquest.com/supercentenarian/pilar-vazquez/

https://familyrootsforlife.org/news/f/2026-living-legend-ms-pilar-vazquez-happy-110th-birthday

Happy belated birthday!