Elba Iris Viruet

Elba Iris Viruet, age 76, of Little Falls, passed away unexpectedly on December 29, 2025.

Born in Puerto Rico on September 29, 1949, Elba was the daughter of the late Petra and Juan DeJesus. The DeJesus family were able to trace their lineage as direct decendants of the original native Taino tribe of Puerto Rico.

At one time, Elba was married to the late Jose Viruet, a union that blessed them with their children.

She was a gifted seamstress and in her younger years, she was accepted on a scholarship to the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. Her family's old-world values, however, led her on a different path. Elba secured a position as a Teacher's Aide with the New York City Board of Education. She loved her students and left a lasting impact on them. 

Elba was a talented vocalist as well and sang in the church choir at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Catholic Church in Queens. One of her favorite memories was of the choir taking up the block to honor Pope John Paul the II when he visited the United States. She loved her church and was a devout Roman Catholic. 

Elba's wonderful sense of humor will forever be remembered by her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and her growing family provided her with endless joy. 

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Michelle Viruet and Tony Martinez; her son, Joseph Viruet and Lisa Foster; her grandchildren, Krysten Sadler, Kadebre Martinez and Blade Dillman, Matthew Viruet and Adam Viruet; and her great-grandchildren, Ezekiel and Elena. She also leaves her sister, Gladys Grant and her nieces, Tracy, Jennifer, Jamie and Melissa. She was predeceased by her brother-in-law, Derrick Grant. 

Elba's family will memorialize her life in their own private way. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Mohawk Valley Funeral & Cremations, 7507 State Route 5, Little Falls, NY (315) 508-5131, Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.mohawkvalleyfunerals.com.