Esperanza "Hope" McNamara, 80, met her husband at the gates of Heaven March 10, 2011. She was born Nov. 3, 1930, in Newark, N.J., to Joseph and Trini Ruiz. She grew up in New Jersey; and May 7, 1955, she married her sweetheart, Joseph McNamara. They lived in various cities all over the country before settling in Jacksonville, Fla. for over 20 years. In 1999, they moved to Las Vegas to be close to their children. She was a talented painter and pianist and a proud member of the Red Hat Society. Hope was also a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church where she sang in the choir. She is survived by her son, David McNamara (Catherine); her daughter, Susan Erculei (Mark); a wonderful granddaughter, Giannina; a fabulous grandson, Gianluca; and one brother, Joseph Ruiz. Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. Friday March 18, with a funeral service following, both at Palm Mortuary, 6701 N. Jones Blvd. Burial will follow.
