Raisa I. Williamson, 78, of Milford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, at Milford Hospital.

Born in Santa Clara, Cuba, Raisa was the daughter of the late Isidro and Wanda Otero and the oldest of six children. She is survived by her siblings Isidro Otero Jr. (Olga), Wanda Lopez (Francisco), and Jose Otero (Doreen). She was predeceased by her parents and two siblings, Maria Kei and Bertha Betso.

Raisa was the devoted mother of Tammy Fisher, whom she shared with her former husband, Charles Harvey. She was the proud grandmother of Zachary Fisher, Kira Fisher, and Caileigh Fisher, and was predeceased by her beloved grandson, Kyle Fisher and nephew Gus Anthony Betso II.

Raisa's story was one of courage from the very beginning. As a young girl, she came to the United States alone and was sent to a boarding school in Maine, where she had to learn not only a new culture but two new languages—English and French. By the time her parents and siblings were able to join her in America, the family settled in Bridgeport, Connecticut, bringing yet another adjustment to an already remarkable young life.

While attending Harding High School, she worked the third shift, to help support her family financially. Hard work wasn't just something she did, it was who she was.

Raisa later built a successful career at Lockheed Martin/Sikorsky in Stratford, where she became a lead person and mentor. She took pride in helping many women grow professionally and was known for encouraging others to believe in themselves.

Anyone who knew Raisa knew she had two speeds: full throttle and "don't tell me what to do." She was fiercely independent right up to the very end. Even her nurses learned quickly that Raisa wasn't about to let anyone boss her around without putting up a spirited debate. She was, in the nicest possible way, a lovable pain in the ass—and she'd probably smile knowing that made it into her obituary.

She loved shopping, firmly believing that retail therapy was a legitimate form of healthcare. Her walk-in closet could probably have qualified as its own department store. She loved cruising around in her Jeep, spending time with friends, relaxing by the beach, and making frequent trips to Miami, especially the Marco Polo Resort.

Animals held a special place in her heart, especially her beloved pit bull. She found joy in feeding the ducks at the park, loved Native American culture and drum circles, and was happiest near the water.

Raisa had a tough exterior that could intimidate those meeting her for the first time, but beneath that feisty shell was an incredibly generous heart. She quietly helped people financially when they were struggling, offered emotional support without hesitation, and never turned away someone she cared about who needed a hand.

She lived life on her own terms, spoke her mind, loved deeply, and left behind stories that her family and friends will be telling for years to come. While her absence leaves an enormous hole in the hearts of those who loved her, they find comfort knowing she is finally at peace.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Raisa's memory are encouraged to spend a day at the beach, feed a few ducks, buy something they probably don't need, help someone who could use a hand, and never let anyone tell them what to do.

A celebration of Raisa's life will be held at a later date and will be announced by her family, anyone wishing to pay their respects or get more information can email Williamson.raisa@yahoo.com.