Rafaelina Pilarte, fondly known as Julie, peacefully departed this world on Saturday, December 16th, 2023, at Jamaica Hospital at the age of 83. Born on February 6, 1940, in El Seibo, Dominican Republic, she was the beloved daughter of Marcelino De Jesus and Maria Perez.

Julie, surrounded by her 10 siblings, spent her formative years in El Seibo. She married Santana A. Pilarte and together, they raised four children - Damian A. Pilarte, Juan A. Pilarte, Santana A. Pilarte Jr., and Ybelize N. Pilarte. In 1976, Julie and her children migrated to the United States to join Santana, who had already established their new home in New York. Nine months later, they welcomed their youngest daughter, Yvette M. Pilarte

Throughout her life in the U.S., Julie worked diligently in various factories, dedicating long hours to support her family both in the U.S. and back home in the Dominican Republic. After retiring from Lomart, a pool manufacturing company in Brooklyn, she found fulfillment in providing childcare to numerous families in her neighborhood.

Julie's unwavering faith and love for God guided her every step. Committed to helping others in the Dominican Republic and her local community, she adopted Emmanuel Nadal and became an integral part of his upbringing.

In addition to her nurturing spirit, Julie was an exceptional cook, treating all who entered her kitchen to delicious Dominican traditional dishes. Beautiful, kind, funny, courageous, with a sharp tongue she never forgot her roots; frequently traveling to the Dominican Republic to visit relatives and provide essential supplies.

As a grandmother, she embraced the name "Mami Julie."

"Mami Julie" is survived by her five children and eight grandchildren, Crystalee, Victor, Juancito, Damiancito, Valentino, Joaquin, and Bryce and three great grandkids. Additionally, she leaves behind nine siblings, numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

As we bid farewell to Mami Juli, let her legacy of service and love continue to shine bright. May perpetual light shine upon her, and may she rest in peace. Amen. Que Dios la bendiga.

Cion Mami