Olga Mercedes (Michel) Castillo

SALEM – Olga Mercedes (Michel) Castillo, 76, of Salem, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Care One in Peabody. Born in La Romana, Dominican Republic, she was the daughter of the late Abri Peets and Josefa Michel. She was raised and educated in the Dominican Republic before immigrating to the United States as a young adult.

Olga lived every aspect of her life grounded in her faith in Jesus Christ. With humility and a servant’s heart, she helped family, friends, and strangers alike. Her life reflected the words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

A devoted mother, faithful church member, and tireless worker, Olga made countless sacrifices so her children could grow up in a safer neighborhood and have greater opportunities. Her churches became extended families, where she spent many hours praying and preparing food to share with others. Throughout her life, she worked in many roles, including factory worker, school bus driver, and nursing assistant.

Though small and quiet, Olga loved to drive and was known for transporting anyone who needed help. She cared for nursing home residents for many years and, even near the end of her life, continued to look out for others around her despite her own declining health. Anyone who experienced Olga’s care, even briefly, witnessed her faith in action.

Alzheimer’s disease took much from Olga, but it never took her faith or her smile. The last name she remembered and spoke was Jesus, and until her final days she was known for her bright, joyful smile—a reflection of the joy she carried from the Lord.

Though Olga’s earthly journey has ended, Scripture reminds us, “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). Olga loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

In addition to her parents, Olga is predeceased by her beloved daughter, Elizabeth “Lilly” Leopoldo, and her sister, Elsa Peets.

Olga is survived by her son, Carlos Leopoldo and his wife, Robin of Swampscott; her son, Anthony Castillo; her sister, Ana Julia Michel; her grandchildren, Jayme Leopoldo, Caleb Leopoldo, and Noah Leopoldo, her nephews, as well as many extended family and friends.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to Olga’s funeral which will be held at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at 10 A.M. with a visiting hour to be held prior to her service from 9 A.M. to 10 A.M. Burial to follow in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, 185 Lake St., Peabody.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to: https://gofund.me/2ddd22f2f

To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.