Sara Gonzalez-Arias

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sara Gonzalez Arias, 68 who was called home to be with the Lord on January 2, 2025. Born on November 20, 1956, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Sara lived a life of joy, love, and faith, always guided by her commitment to God and her family. At the time of her passing, she was a resident of Wimauma, Florida.

Sara was the beloved wife of Robertulio Arias, stepmother to Esteban Arias, and cherished grandmother to Angelina Arias and Makayla Peña.

She was the devoted daughter of the late Reverend Almirido and Ana Gonzalez. Sara is survived by her beloved siblings Obed (Linda), Margarita, Miriam, Persida (Angel), Eva, Maida (Wilberto), Edwin, and Almirido Jr. (Gysele). She was predeceased by her beloved brothers Benjamin, Eliu, and Eliezer. Sara was also a doting aunt to her countless nieces and nephews and a confidante and friend to all who knew her.

Sara’s fondest memories were of her joyful childhood, playing hopscotch and double Dutch with her sisters, laughing at nothing yet feeling the abundance of love and warmth her parents provided. She was deeply grateful to her mother and father for raising her in a godly home. Sara’s early ambitions were to travel the world and to give her very best in everything she did—a philosophy she carried throughout her life.

Her greatest joys were spending time with her family, sharing heart-to-heart conversations, and celebrating life’s milestones, such as her granddaughter’s christening and annual holiday gatherings. She especially cherished her “Sisters’ Weekends,” filled with laughter, love, and memories. Sara held dear the moments of reconciliation with the Lord at Bethsaida Christian Church in Jersey City, her spiritual home, a place where her father pastored, where she was married and where her faith was renewed.

Music brought her immense joy, with her favorite hymns including “Con Cristo en la Familia, que Hogar Feliz,”“When the Saints Go Marching In,” and “I Can Only Imagine.” A particularly special song in Sara’s life was “Te Quedarías Conmigo” by Tito Rojas, her wedding song, which symbolized the love and laughter she shared with her husband, Robertulio.

Professionally, Sara served as an executive legal secretary and later as a dedicated caretaker for her mother, fulfilling a promise she made to her father. She approached every task with excellence, giving 110% and placing God at the forefront of all her accomplishments. One of her proudest moments came 20 years ago when, by God’s mercy, she overcame cancer, a victory she described as “kicking cancer in the butt.”

Sara’s favorite color was red, reflecting her vibrant and passionate spirit. She enjoyed going to the movies, dancing, bowling, traveling to places like Colombia, Puerto Rico, California, Cartagena, and Mexico, and watching Christmas movies and love stories. Her generosity and love were evident in the way she helped others in need, gave tight hugs and kisses, and created unforgettable moments with her loved ones.

Sara’s legacy is one of love, faith, resilience, and joy. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the light she brought into the lives of everyone she met.

The viewing will take place on Monday, January 6, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at:

Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4207 E Lake Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610

Funeral Service will take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM with a visitation from

10-11AM. Interment to follow at the cemetery. In lieu of gifts, flowers may be sent directly to the funeral home.

The family appreciates your prayers and support as they celebrate the life of this extraordinary woman who lived to honor God and to love her family with all her heart.