Wilfred Seda

Wilfredo Seda (January 9, 1952-December 16, 2024) was a proud first-generation Puerto Rican born and raised in New York City. He dedicated his life to uplifting his family, community, and culture. A highly educated and well-read man, Wilfredo’s passion for advocacy and service began early, using his bilingual skills and knowledge to empower and support the Latino community.

Wilfredo’s professional life reflected his unwavering commitment to public service. He served as Executive Director of the Spanish American Civic Association (SACA) in both Lancaster and Reading, PA, championing Latino interests and fostering community growth. In the late 1980s, he was appointed by Pennsylvania Governor Bob Casey as Executive Director of the Governor’s Council on Hispanic Affairs, where he advocated for minority voices at the state level. In the early 1990s, Wilfredo and other distinguished citizens elected a charter change commission for the city of Reading, to change the structure of the government of Reading, and then had the voters approve it. Wilfredo chaired that effort as a commissioner of the Charter. Wilfredo made history as the first Latino to run for mayor in Reading, PA. Though not elected, his groundbreaking candidacy inspired future generations to dream big. He also brought his skills and expertise to work with the U.S. Treasury Department and many civic organizations.A trailblazer in media, Wilfredo pioneered one of Lancaster’s first all-Spanish radio shows in the 1980s and hosted a groundbreaking Latino television program on WGAL Channel 8. Through these platforms, he highlighted Latino community issues and achievements at a time when such representation was rare, amplifying voices that needed to be heard.Wilfredo’s greatest joy was his role as a loving father, family patriarch, and mentor. He raised his two children, Jacqui and Wilfredo Jr, and later his granddaughter Nalani with unwavering love, instilling in them the values of education, integrity, and family. To all the family members, immediate and extended, Wilfredo was more than a relative—he was a second father, a life guide, and a source of inspiration.In his later years, Wilfredo dedicated himself to securing grants for minority initiatives, furthering his life’s mission to empower underserved communities. Also, he continued with his passion for music, with producing and hosting the Jazzarama radio program, which was on WLCH FM.

Whether through his work, his words, or his calm and steady presence, Wilfredo touched countless lives. Wilfredo Seda leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and love. His life’s work was a testament to his dedication to family, community, and culture.