Hegai Payano was born December 6, 1941 to Rosa Santos and Cruz Rivera (Deceased) and passed away on May 13, 2023. She grew up in Puerto Rico and later migrated to Manhattan, New York. It was through her friend Sara that she was introduced to her husband, Rafael. They later moved to Bronx, Ny where they raised their children. Hegai was a loving and giving person. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, great aunt, and friend to many. She was generous and thoughtful remembering others on birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions. There was always a card, a gift, or a phone call. We will remember her kindness, and generosity.

She will live forever in our hearts.

Hegai  is survived by her children Mary Payano, Patricia Benitez (Juan Benitez), Roberto Payano (Sdhari Cason-Payano), Arnaldo Albrincoles (Jazmin Albrincoles) and Ana Rosado (Bonus Daughter) who she loved as her own ; Grandchildren Robert Payano, Jasmine Payano, Gladis Figueroa (Anthony Figueroa), Brianna Payano, Miguel Taveras, Priscilla Taveras, Anthony Payano, Raymond Vega, Lyric Albrincoles, and Amar Albrincoles; Great grandchildren Adrian Payano, Sophia Payano, Leah Figueroa , Ava Payano, and Evan Figueroa; her close niece Angela Mercedes; good friends Sara and Ruth; 2 sisters, Carmen Barbosa and Gladys; 3 brothers, David Rivera, Tony Rivera , Israel Rivera and host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Preceding her in death was her husband Rafael Payano, and her parents.