Mercedes Portela

Mercedes “Mercy” Portela passed away peacefully in her home on April 16, 2026. Beloved wife of 40 years to Jack Lagershausen. Adored mother to Maria (Rick)Schmidt and their children Ryan and Elisa, the late Alfredo (Terri) Portela and their children Fredo, Michael and Tommy. Treasured stepmother to Kathy (Mark) Leider and their daughter Jessica, Tim (Elizabeth) Lagershausen and their children Peter and Jenny and Suzanne (Toby) Elder and their daughter Sophie. Beloved daughter of the late Mercedes and Rigoberto Areces. Dear sister of Marge (Bill) Potter and the late Bertila (Osvaldo)Soto. Cherished fun and fashionable “Tia” to her many nieces and nephews.

She was born and raised in Cuba and attended boarding school in America. In 1961 while pregnant with her son, she along with her first husband Alfredo Portela and daughter Maria fled communist Cuba and exiled to Miami Florida. She went through struggles, worked many jobs while raising her children and eventually became a very proud citizen of the United States. In her 30’s she thrived and fulfilled her dream of becoming a hairstylist. She worked in the north shore of Chicago for 40 plus years and was blessed with wonderful clients, many of whom became lifelong friends until the very end. Mercy was an inspiration and counselor to many. She loved to cook, garden and her beloved Cubbies.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family and strength of spirit. Those who knew her were moved by her faith in the Holy Spirit, positive attitude and her incredible warmth. She will never be forgotten and will live in the hearts of her family and many friends.

On Saturday June 13th, there will be a noon visitation followed by a 1 o’clock mass at Ascension Catholic Church in Oak Park. 808 S.East Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Lupus Research Alliance.