Melania Vicente Carrion

“If I can help somebody as I pass along the way my living will not be in vain” Unspoken motto Melanie Vicente Carrion was born on January 6, 1923 in Caracas, Venezuela. On September 13, 2014, an angel of the Lord summoned Melania to her eternal home where the streets are paved with gold and prayer and singing are continuous. Melania was welcomed by her parents, Emanuel Vicente and Candid Ophemia Luisa Vicente, her sixteen brothers and sisters, and her two grandchildren, Henry Edward Bullock, III and Berry E. Carrion, Jr. Melania was a cradle Catholic growing up in a loving and devout Catholic. It was during those formative years she learned about the “Love of God” and the importance of prayer in her life. In her young adult life Melania became a missionary where she traveled to Italy, France and England teaching those who would listen to pray and about the love of God. Melania often talked about life in Caracas, Venezuela during her early years and how she hoped that life for her would change. It was during those years she prayed and waited for an opportunity to venture to a new land. At the age of 30, Melania realized her dream and arrived in the United States. Several years passed as she prepared herself to become a United States citizen. On July 26, 1965, Melania Vincente Carrion received her certificate of Naturalization, what an exciting and proud day it was for her. She is now a citizen of the United States. Melania was employed by the City of Richmond, Department of General Services as an associate custodian for 35 years. It was during her many years on the job that she comforted, consoled and ministered to those who looked to her for wisdom. Melania helped the marginal by inviting them into her home when they were homeless, without food, and needed a friend. She and her daughters became their family. Melania visited hospitals, nursing homes, and jails and sharing the Word of God for those she knew and did not know. Melania had a special relationship with Bishop John J. Russell (deceased) and Bishop Walter S. Sullivan (deceased). Melania would often call on them to visit those in need of prayer. Melania was instrumental in the Bishops offering Mass for the seniors living at the First Street High Rise. For many years she utilized the First Street High Rise providing Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for numerous families in that community. She always insured that each person left with a small gift wrapped especially for them. Melania was a humanitarian, doing whatever she could to make life just a little better for all those she encountered. She stared many bible study groups at St. Peter, Scared Heart, St.Paul, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, and many individual homes. For many years Melania sponsored many families from Cuba, Trindad, and Venezuela, allowing them to begin a fresh start in America. Melania was a great prayer warrior each morning she called her children inviting them to pray and listen to what the Lord had in store for them that day. Melania,lived by prayer,she believed in the power of prayer,and she trusted that God would answer her prayers. Melania's devotion to the Blessed Mother was unfaltering,praying the rosary several times daily. Melania Vincente Carrion love of God was exemplified through her daily walk with the Lord. Indeed she was a saintly woman! Melania loved her family and enjoyed all of their many family celebrations. One of the highlights of her life was when she celebrated her ninetieth birthday. Her family and friend thanked God for such a spiritual inspirational woman who stood in their midst. Melanie Vicente Carrion leaves to forever remember her life and legacy, three daughters, Anna Marie Carrion,Margarita C. Davis and Gregoria Carrion,Richmond,Virginia.One sister, Carmen Barboza,Caracas,Venezuela;ten grandchildren,Barry Figaro Devon,Naquisha T.K. ,Shenna N.A. Carrion,George R. Williams,III,Margaria Monie Shirelle,Moniesha Avita Javon,Mario Lewis Bullock,Rafael E. and Antonio R. Carrion, Claudia Fentress,Richmond,Virginia,and Esperanza Mayan, Caracas,Venezuela.Ten great grandchildren,Cannisa and Clayton Salandy,Dadaija,Madden,Brieonna,NaQua’n,Nevaeh Carrion,Lawarren and Otis Hendricks,Khamaya Early,Danzella Bullock-Coles,Damontez Bullock-Coles,Marquez and Marquise Bullock,Richmond,Virginia and Usa Mayan, Caracas, Venezuela. One great-great granddaughter Reina King, Caracas, Venezuela, and many other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Melania Vicente Carrion

January 6, 1923 - September 13, 2014