Pilar Esther Vila, 80, of Vineland, NJ received her wings and ascended with the angels on Thursday, May 18, 2023 surrounded by her family.

Pilar Esther Vila, born on October 19, 1942 to Magdalena Valentin Vila and Ramon Vila in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. Pilar moved to Bronx, New York as a teen and went on to pursue her BA in Health and Behavioral Science from Touro University Graduate School of Social work (Manhattan Campus)

Her love for social work and children lead her to a long career as the Director of E.A.D for the State of NY (Spanish Harlem) youth program. She retired from the State Assembly as the Assistant to late State Assemblyman Angelo Del Toro. She was a longtime resident of South Jersey, where she supported children as a social worker at the Uptown School Complex in Atlantic City, NJ. After retirement Pilar enjoyed reading and volunteering at the public library in Vineland, NJ and making memories with her partner in puzzles and best friend Ms. Samantha (granddaughter).

Pilar is predeceased by her daughter, Iris Milagros Rodriguez, sons Placido Rodriguez and Raymond Rodriguez, Mother Magdalena Valentin Vila, Father Ramon Vila, Grandmother Pilar Mercado, Aunt Marianna Munoz and eldest brother Enrique Valentin (Quique).

Pilar is survived by her youngest beloved son David Anthony Figueroa, her brothers Jose Valentin (Adelaida) and Milton Vila Sr. (Patricia), Aunt Conchita Figueroa, her grandchildren Sergio, Justin, Brandon and Samantha Lee Figueroa, Tasia Marie, Brianna Nicole, great grandchildren Thaliya, Malaya, and Justin Jr. Figueroa. A host of nieces, nephews, grand/great nieces and nephews, and honorary daughters Irma Valentin Gorbig and Millie Parrilla and all of those she loved and touched deeply.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 20th at Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Ave. Vineland. Family and friends may gather from 10:00-11:00 am, prior to the service. Interment will be private.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.wbfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.