Carmen M. Palmares, 82, died on Wednesday July 17, 2013 after a long illness, at the Curtis Home. Born on February 5, 1931 in Dorado, Puerto Rico, she was the daughter of the late Tomas Palmares Vega and Rufina Rios Gaetan Palmares. Carmen was a longtime resident of Meriden. She worked as a seamstress for many years until her retirement. Carmen enjoyed cooking and was known for her delicious rice dishes. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family whom she loved dearly. Mrs. Palmares is survived by her son Ermelindo Morales, Jr. and Maureen; a brother Diego Palmares and his wife Norma; 4 grandchildren: Gypsy Cardona, Carmelo Cardona and his wife Leyda, Aaron Morales and Kimberly Woods; 13 great grandchildren; her former husband Carmelo Papotto and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her daughter Carmen Enaida Morales; first husband Ermelindo Morales Sr.; 2 brothers: Tomas Palmares, Julio Palmares; a sister Julia Palmares Rios; her grandson Ermelindo W. Morales and great grandson Rahieme McFadden.