Carlota Valeriano Williams, 102

The family mourns the passing of their loved one, Carlota (Charlotte) Delores Valeriano Williams. She died peacefully in New Haven on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, one day shy of her 103rd birthday.

Ms. Williams was born on December 15, 1919, in Brava, Cabo Verde to Felipe and Aninha DaRosa Valeriano. She migrated to the United States as a toddler with her parents. She was the eldest of seven. She attended New Haven public schools and later, in her 70’s, went on to receive a bachelor’s degree.

Ms. Williams was well-known in the New Haven community as a pioneering business entrepreneur. She along with her late husband, Kenneth Williams, were owners of the Soundtrack Nightclub where many singing groups got their start, one famously, Frankie Beverly of Maze. She was the owner of Carla’s Togs and Williams’ Package Store. Over the years, she was a property owner of several apartment buildings.

Her hard work and tenacity provided a platform for her many accomplishments. She never allowed obstacles to hinder her from achieving her goals. As one of the presidents of the New Haven Cape Verdean Society, she was responsible for maintaining cultural values and promoting awareness of Cape Verde, the small West African islands. Her extensive worldwide travels continued to educate her about many global cultures and new experiences. She enjoyed reading and collecting African Art. Her home was a reflection of her interests and adventures. She was a member of several local community organizations and volunteered for many city events. She was recognized and awarded for her business acumen. Carlota Valeriano Williams was a lifelong member of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church where she faithfully served on the Women’s Auxiliary.

She will be missed by her daughters, Carlota-Aninha and Kennita Williams; brothers, Armando and Walter (Joan) Valeriano; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends to remember her. She was predeceased by her parents, Felipe and Aninha Da Rosa Valeriano; brothers, Daniel, Silvino, Manuel Valeriano; and sister, Ruta Pires. 

A celebration of her life will be held on Tuesday, December 20 at 10:30 AM at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 136 Dixwell Ave, New Haven, CT. Viewing will be from 9:30 – 10:30 AM. Services by Howard K. Hill Funeral Services, 1287 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511. To leave a message of comfort for the Williams family, please visit, www.hkhfuneralservices.com

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