In Memory: Jose Rafael Elias-Liñero, Age 61

Jose Rafael Elias-Liñero (61), called Rafa by his loved ones, Aita by his children, and Aitite by his grandchildren, left our world of the living on Monday, February 26, 2024. His loss came suddenly, dealing a terrible blow to his family and loved ones.

Rafael was born to Rafael Elias and Rosario Liñero in Mexico City on December 10, 1962. He fell in love with and married the love of his life, Carla Nava, with whom he raised three children, Andoni, Carla, and Maite. He moved to the United States with his family at thirty years old, and received his Masters Degree in Private and Public Management from Yale University. After graduating, he moved his family to Rye Neck, where they lived until last year, when they moved to Greenwich, CT. While his children were in school, he worked as a financial and political analyst of high regard for over 25 years.

In 2008, Rafael became a Naturalized Citizen of the United States, an accomplishment that he was immensely proud of. He was fiercely passionate about politics, having volunteered or worked for several major campaigns in both the US and Mexico. He was highly regarded by the people he spoke to, for his intelligence, wit, humor, and sensitivity. In 2011, he ran for a seat on the Rye City Council, fulfilling a lifelong dream of running for office.

Over the last two years, Rafael lent his perspective to several online political commentary programs in Mexico, and was able to build a considerable following of loyal fans and friends, people who found value and comfort in his words and ideas. He was a dreamer, in the truest sense of the word, and he loved to share his vision for the future with others.

Rafael was a massive fan of Athletic Club Bilbao, his favorite soccer team, which he followed and supported with that same passion all of his life. In his adulthood, he was able to befriend his childhood idol from that team, and they continued to stay in touch until his last days. Rafael was charming, charismatic, and funny, and he loved with a passion and strength that is rare to find.

Rafael is survived by his beloved wife Carla, his children Andoni, Carla, and Maite, his grandchildren Tommy and Ana, his sister Rosario, and his brother Gubrielito. He is gone too soon, but he will be missed, and the memory of his love and affection will live on in the hearts of his family. For those hoping to pay their respects, a memorial will be held at the Church of the Resurrection in Rye, NY on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 10am.