Gloria "Cookie" Carnicella

CARNICELLA GLORIA “COOKIE” FERNANDEZ, 77, passed away on June 18, 2025 in Miami-Lakes, Florida. She was born on February 24, 1948 in Miami, Florida, the second child of the late Frank and Gloria (Molina) Fernandez.

She is survived by her daughter, Gloria (Jason) Rigsbee; son, James A. Carnicella; granddaughters, Taylor, Braidyn and Madison Rigsbee; brother, Frank (Barbara) Fernandez; former spouse, Jimmy Carnicella.

Cookie graduated from Miami Jackson High School and worked at North Twin Lakes and Ben Sheppard elementary schools. Cookie brought smiles and warmth to her work everyday, becoming extended family for so many kids, families and teachers. She was devoted to and loved her family and could be heard talking and laughing everywhere she went. She was an energetic Girl Scout volunteer for many years, a diehard photographer, expert Rice Krispies maker, stray animal lover, movie watcher, and arts and crafts enthusiast. Cookie enjoyed traveling with and to see family, never missing a show, birthday or holiday. There was never a task, errand or favor that Cookie didn’t say yes to with a smile. Cookie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and joy that was one of the rarest of blessings in this world.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend call on Tuesday, June 24 from 4-7 p.m. at Caballero Rivera Woodlawn South, 11655 SW 117 Ave., Miami, Florida. To visit the guest book online, go to www.connect.dignitymemorial.com. The family has requested in lieu of flowers those who wish to make memorial contributions donate to the Savannah Children’s Theatre where Cookie watched her daughter and granddaughters pursue their passion and bring joy to her and families over the years (savannahchildrenstheatre.org).