John Bligh
- Paraprofessional and UFT paraprofessional representative
- High School for Law and Public Service, Manhattan
Hilda Pacheco was a longtime paraprofessional and UFT paraprofessional representative at the High School for Law and Public Service, part of the George Washington Educational Campus in Manhattan. A UFT member since 2000, she worked at the school for her entire 23-year career.
Hilda, 49, died of cancer on April 6.
Hilda wore many hats at the Washington Heights school. In addition to working with dozens of students in her role as a paraprofessional, she managed many day-to-day operations in the Special Education office. As a paraprofessional representative, Hilda generously empowered her colleagues every day.
She was also working toward her dream of becoming a school counselor, though in her own way, Hilda already was one. For years, she helped students navigate high school and life. Students could always confide in Hilda and count on her for support, guidance and love.
She had a one-of-a-kind presence at her school, and every staff member and student has a heartwarming story about Hilda to share.
“She had an incredible ability to make you feel heard,” said Nick Bacon, the UFT chapter leader at her school. “Her laughter was infectious and her smile could put everyone at ease. Hilda is irreplaceable and our school won’t be the same without her. We will miss her deeply.”
Hilda was also passionate about dancing.
Hilda is survived by her son, Evan Bonilli; her mother, Hilda; her brothers, Hiram and Jerry; and her sister, Lydia.
My deepest condolences. We lost a good one. I worked with Hilda at an afterschool program in Harlem. She was a kind soul. I can still hear her asking, “What you need mama?” You would tell her and her response would be, “Don’t worry, I got you.” I always thought that I would go back and see you there. I guess I waited too long. You will truly be missed. You’re one of God’s angels now. Thank you for being you. You truly made a difference to so many. May God keep you and watch over your loved ones.
MY SISTER FROM A DIFFERENT SYSTEM I WILL ALWAYS MISS YOU ALL OF US GROWING IN UP IN WAGNER THOUGH U WAS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING WE EVER SAW I TOLD U THIS MANY OF TIMES ,I CANT QUESTION GOD BUT I REALLY BELIEVE HE GOT THIS ONE WRONG WHEN I SEE U KAT AND PRETTY EYES. THE (3) EVERYTHING ITS GOING TO BE SOHARD SEEING THEM WITHOUT U SO MY SISTER WATCH OVER THEM THEY NEED U. LOVE IS ALWAYS AND ANYTIME SOMEONE SPEAKS YOUR NAME R.I.P THIS AIN’T GOOD BUY ITS JUST GODS WAY
We took a great loss here on earth, you were truly one of the best of the best. You will forever be In our heart, you Left your Foot prints. see you later ❤️ Happy Birthday Tuti
It is unbelievable that you are not here with us any longer. Tuti we were family, neighbors and friends. You were the epitome of love, loyalty, courage and grace. Gone too soon. Loved forever.
I met Ms. Hilda when my daughter started skating with FSH( Figure Skating in Harlem) whom Ms. Hilda was a counselor. She was one of the most Sweetest person I have known. Ms. Hilda loved those girls and they loved her back. Everytime I saw her, she would always say hey Ms. Lady! I am going to miss her saying those words to me. I love and miss you so much. Sleep in Heavenly Peace ❤❤❤
Hilda. A second mother to me. Every time I’d get a trouble they’ll come to you first and you straighten me out before they could even get my mom or sister on the phone. Still can’t believe it i feel like i lost a part of me I’m never gonna get back. I love you to the moon and back (you said this to me everyday since i was 5 years old ) you more than just staff to me. To me and my family you were one of us. We love you and will forever miss you.
When I heard that u passed away I couldn’t believe it. You we’re so nice and sweet always with that smile on your face . I would ask u about your son we would talk. You raised a good kid . Your mom is just like u always asking how my daughter is doing. I wii miss seeing u in the building. May u Rest In Peace my friend. ❤️❤️
My dear childhood friend. I could not pass this post without commenting. I remember seeing you a riverside park with children, taking them roller skating. You was in control. You say my name and gave me that beautiful smile. My heart hurts so much cause you was there for me when my brother passed in july of last year. And now I couldn’t show my last respects and see you pretty face one more time. You was loved by so many. This world lost a good Human being. Passed away way to young. You will be missed by many. I will never ever forget. May You Continue Rest In Peace. Love You Hilda
Tuti you always wore a smile, graciously impacting the lives of so many and proud to call you family. Gone but never forgotten.
I known tuti since I was a teenager she was more than a friend she was a teenager 1 of the real ones in every shape and form. She was always there in the good and the bad an ear for you to vent and a shoulder to cry. I will never forget you tuti forever in our hearts !
S.I.P. Queen
I just know that things won’t be the same without you. You made my time at LPS one to remember with you. You were my mentor, friend & business partner. You will forever been in my heart! Love you Miss P
Hi Ms P thank you so much for loving Hilda so much. You also cared for my daughters while at GWC. much love to you always.
Your name is Hilda but you was my Tuts, god knows how much I miss you. You was my right or left that was all depending on what side you would stand by me. You was my Maid of Honor for my wedding we have been BFF for over 30+ yrs and family by marriage for over 5+ yrs. The day you passed a whole part of me went right with you. You will FOREVER be in my HEART.. Till I see you again.. SLEEP IN PEACE TUTS
Through your selflessness and caring big heart , you impacted the lives of countless people. You will always be remembered. Rest In Peace my cousin ❤️
MY DEAR FRIEND HOW I SO WISHED TO BE HERE TO SAY MY GOOD BYES YOU WAS A WONDERFUL FRIEND AT ALL TIMES OF MY LIFE AND I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT OR YOU. MAY YOU NOW BE AT PIECE AND I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU.LOVE YOU ALWAYS.
Having worked so closely with Hilda these last few years- I can only say – she was one very special lady. Her infectious smile, good-natured disposition, kindness, love for her students, caring for her colleagues and her dedication to her work, friends and family was testament to how seriously she valued her mission here on earth. Her sweet and gentle spirit and tenderheartedness – such supremely rare qualities found in people today- will truly be missed. Truly she touched so very many lives, and her impact on all those who cared for her is immeasurable. My deepest condolences to all her friends and family. May God rest her soul in everlasting peace. ❤️