- Date Of Birth: December 23, 1932
- Date Of Death: December 11, 2019
- State: New York
Mercedes (McKenley) Colon was born in Isla De Pina, Cuba, on December 23, 1932, to Miriam McKenley and Samuel Levy. She spent most of her life in Havana, Cuba, along with her six brothers and sisters, where she enjoyed her family and friends.
Mercedes came to the United States in 1959, with an interest in continuing her education and becoming a nurse. She succeeded in becoming a Registered Nurse and worked as a Registered Nurse throughout New York City.
In 1964, Mercedes met and married Leonilde Colon Sr. From this union; two sons were born; Leonilde Colon Jr. (Leo) and Armando Colon. She was a mother not just to her two sons, but to everyone with whom she came in contact. Her home was a place where anyone could find love and support. She was the life of every party, and her gastronomical prowess was “world” renown. By this, I mean she could cook. Her pernil was in constant demand. Her Arroz con Pollo was often asked for by those who knew her. She made a Shrimp Fried Rice that made many dance around the dining room table. Of course, this was common everyday fare for her two sons, but to the rest of the world, a gastronomical wonder.
Mercedes McKenley Colon worked as a nurse for over 30 years. She often took on second and third shifts to support her family and put Leo and Armando through private school and private music lessons.
Leo and Armando are accomplished musicians, and it was Mom who would take the boys to rehearsals and many times to lessons. Often, Leo and Armando would do recitals at a Musicians Conventions, and Mom would usually arrange travel and take us all over the United States to perform.
