Carmen Martir Arana, a remarkable woman whose legacy is etched in the hearts of those she touched. Born on August 1, 1928, in the scenic town of Lares, Puerto Rico, Carmen’s journey of 96 years came to a peaceful close on January 21, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, in the Puerto Rico National Cemetery in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband.
Carmen was the beloved matriarch of a family that cherished her deeply. She was preceded in death by her devoted parents, Jose B. Martir and Angelina Santiago Martir, her loving husband, Henry Arana, and four siblings who shared in the tapestry of her life. Her spirit lives on through her children, Enrique A. Arana, Angeline Arana, Carmen Arana, Alma I. Arana, and Karan Rodriguez, her 13 grandchildren, and her sole surviving sister, all of whom will continue to honor her memory.
Throughout her life, Carmen was a pillar of strength and a beacon of knowledge. Her career as a Home Economics Teacher allowed her to impart wisdom and skills to countless students, shaping the futures of generations. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she ventured into business ownership, where her leadership and dedication were evident to all who worked with her.
Carmen’s life was a testament to her unwavering Catholic faith, which guided her every step. She was the epitome of a loving wife and mother, always ensuring that her family was enveloped in care and affection. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, where no guest could leave without the comforting offer of a cup of coffee—a simple act that symbolized her hospitality and generous spirit.
Those who knew Carmen would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and gentle—a woman whose serene demeanor belied the strength of her character. Her influence extended beyond the confines of her home and into the community, where she was respected and admired for her commitment to her faith and family.
