WORCESTER - Sotiraq Deli, 85, of Worcester, died Friday, March 11, 2022 at St. Vincent Hospital after a long illness.

His wife of 46 years, Llambrini (Pani) Deli, died in 2005.  He leaves a daughter, Anila Vangjeli and her husband Elia of Worcester, a son, Petrika Deli and his wife Ana of Worcester; his brothers and sisters  Lonnidha Deli, Vaska Deli, Gjerji Deli and Lana Deli, all of Albania; grandchildren, Kristina Deli of Worcester, Sotira Deli of Worcester, Soela Prifti of PA, and Theodore Vangjeli of France.  Great-grandchildren Aaliyah Souffrant and Armani Souffrant of Worcester, Gregg Prifti and Franka Prifti of PA.   He was predeceased by two brothers, Lonnidha Deli and Vaska Deli.  He was born in Korce, Albania, son of Lluca and Anastasi (Opari) Deli, and has lived here for over 20 years. 

Sotiraq was a saddle maker at an equestrian supply company in Albania.  He enjoyed music, playing dominos, and most of all spending his time with family.

A funeral will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 in St. Mary's Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury St.   Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.  Calling hours will be from 4-6 pm on Monday, March 14 at Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave.