Enrique Sotomayor, 86, went home to be with his Lord on April 11, 2021 surrounded by family in Ocala. Enrique was born in Arequipa, Peru.
He met his wife of 48 years, Emilia, in New York City in 1964, two years after both immigrated to America. They married in 1966 and began a family in 1968.
Enrique lived a life that exemplified him and in doing so left a legacy for all who knew and loved him. The doors to his home and his heart were always open. He will be remembered for his unconditional love, his gentle spirit, his forgiving nature, his inner strength, his unwavering devotion to family and friends, his generosity, and his love for both Peruvian and American culture.
His godson, Martin Luque shared his thoughts from his home in New York City.
“All my life, he always reminded me of the kind of man one should be as a father, husband, caretaker, and friend. I loved him as my godfather for having a welcoming and strong spirit.” Martin added, “I’m grateful to have been there for the laughs, the dinners, the get-togethers, and leaning support.”
Janet Ninatanta, oldest daughter of Segundo and Clara Ninatanta, two of Enrique’s oldest and dearest friends from Peru shared, “Enrique, thank you and Emilia’s friendship over the years to both of my parents. I pray when you go home, you go bravely with the knowledge that our Heavenly father and all of your family, loved ones, and friends who went before you, will welcome you into God’s kingdom with open arms, great Peruvian music, and a nice cold chelita.”
Enrique and Emilia moved to Ocala Palms in 2005, where they were devoted member of the Ocala Palms Worship Service.
Former Pastor of the Ocala Palms Worship Community, the Rev. Robert Greaves recalls, “Enrique and his beloved wife, Emilia, were dearly loved and respected by the Ocala Palms Community. They regularly attended and supported the Ocala Palms Worship Community while I was pastor.”
Enrique dutifully set up chairs and Bibles the night before each Sunday service, then helped put them away after service before joining the fellowship brunch.
Gary Nelson, the set-up coordinator remembers, “Enrique was very dependable. Whenever I needed him, he was there to assist.” Gary added, “Enrique and Emilia both wanted Sotomayor.
A service will be held at Roberts of Ocala Funerals & Cremations, 606 SW 2nd Ave, Ocala Tuesday, April 27 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. A procession will immediately follow to his final resting place, The Good Shepherd Memorial Gardens, 5050 SW 20th St, Ocala, with a Committal Ceremony at 2 p.m. Everyone who knew him or the family and/or wish to celebrate his life is encouraged to attend.
Arrangements are being handled by John and Alexander Sotomayor and Roberts of Ocala, Ocala. to help as much as they could to make sure the service ran smooth. They always brought goodies to share for fellowship after service.”
Devoted to God, during his time in Ocala, he attended services at both Queen of Peace then Blessed Trinity.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Fortunata Rodriguez Salazar; father, Mariano Lino Sotomayor Morales and his wife, Emilia Sotomayor. Enrique is survived by two sons, John Sotomayor, and Alexander Sotomayor.
A service will be held at Roberts of Ocala Funerals & Cremations, 606 SW 2nd Ave, Ocala Tuesday, April 27 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. A procession will immediately follow to his final resting place, The Good Shepherd Memorial Gardens, 5050 SW 20th St, Ocala, with a Committal Ceremony at 2 p.m. Everyone who knew him or the family and/or wish to celebrate his life is encouraged to attend.
Arrangements are being handled by John and Alexander Sotomayor and Roberts of Ocala, Ocala.