was born September 3, 1922 in Rodas, Cuba. She married Jose Antonio Bardelas on October 12, 1946.
She struggled through the oppression of communist Cuba until 1963 when, along with her husband and daughter, left everything behind and never returned. She came to the United States, non-English speaking but with a desire and a dream of liberty and freedom for her children and her family which never would have been realized in Castro-controlled Cuba. Her two sons, Jose Jr. (Tony) and Roberto, ages 13 and 12, arrived two years earlier and waited patiently for their family in wonderful Catholic sponsored homes. They were reunited in Freeport, IL, where she and her husband, Jose Bardelas, determined to quickly assimilate, find gainful employment and start their new life.
Her substantial faith in Christ was the foundation on which Georgina based her life. She faced challenges in a new country and yet, not only prevailed but succeeded. After raising their family in IL, she and Jose retired to FL for 15 years. In 2001, they moved to NC to be near family where Jose preceded her in death in 2009. She and Jose enjoyed the beach and traveling much of the United States, especially visiting national parks. She adored her grandchildren and absolutely doted on her great grandchildren. They enjoyed each other’s company and eating ice cream was always involved.
She is survived by her children, Jose A. Bardelas Jr., M.D. (Tony) and wife Sallie of High Point, Roberto Bardelas of Alsea, OR and Gini Vascellaro and husband Mike of Greensboro; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and innumerable nieces, nephews and extended family in the US and Cuba. In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, Tranquilino Leyva Polignac and Ana Leyva and thirteen siblings.
A memorial mass will be at 11:00 on January 18, 2019 at St. Pius X Catholic Church officiated by Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio. The family will receive friends after the service in the Simmons Center.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Pius X Catholic Church, 2210 N. Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27408, Family Services of the Piedmont, 315 E. Washington Street, Greensboro, NC 27401, or a charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com. Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm chapel is assisting the family.
