Elba Resto (Nee Roman)
"Grandma"
Elba Resto, 84, of Romeoville passed away peacefully at home on Thursday,
September 19, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Elba was born and raised in
Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and in 1957, she courageously moved to the United States to
build a better life. She initially lived on the West Side of Chicago and, in 1963, moved to
the West Town neighborhood, where she lived until settling in Romeoville in 2017. One
of Elba's greatest accomplishments was purchasing her beloved Chicago home with her
own money, saved through hard work as a single mother—a home she took immense
pride in and cherished deeply.
Elba was a truly selfless person who helped countless family members during their
times of crisis, always opening her heart and home to anyone in need. She took in
animals and cared for any living being that crossed her path, without hesitation or
complaint. Her acts of love were never accompanied by negativity; she maintained a
positive outlook and an inner strength that inspired all who knew her. Elba was
"Grandma" not only to her own family but to everyone who had the privilege of being in
her life.
Elba enjoyed watching Mass from home when she was no longer able to attend in
person. Her deep faith and caring spirit were evident in everything she did. She had a
love for animals, especially her cherished cats and dogs. She enjoyed cooking,
collecting ceramics, and taking long walks. However, her greatest joy came from
spending time with her family. She was known for always putting the needs of others
before her own, and her unwavering kindness and love touched the lives of all who
knew her. She will be deeply missed.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Ricardo and Juanita (Nee Raieses) Roman,
and her beloved daughter-in-law, Denise St. Fort.
Elba is survived by her devoted son, Edwin (Patti) of Romeoville, and her four adored
grandchildren: Justin (Nicole), Joshua, Isabella, and Pierre St. Fort. She is also survived
by her loving niece, Sadie Borres.
Visitation will be held at O'Neil Funeral Home Chapel, 1105 E. 9th St., on Monday,
September 23, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Prayers will take place in the same
chapel on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 9:15 AM, proceeding to St. Dennis
Church in Lockport for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Following the
Mass, interment will be at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.