Nirgidma Murissi

Nirgidma Murissi

October 9, 1938 – March 30, 2026

With profound sorrow and enduring love, we announce the peaceful passing of Nirgidma Murissi, who departed on March 30, 2026, surrounded by her children.

Born in Colombia to Ana Inés Núñez and Leonidas Murissi, Nirgidma lived a life defined by intellect, resilience, and compassion. She immigrated to the United States in 1967 and later became a proud U.S. citizen, building her life in Queens, New York.

She began her studies at La Escuela Normal Superior de Bucaramanga, a distinguished institution for educators, and continued her academic journey at Universidad Javeriana, earning degrees in philosophy and psychology. She later pursued postgraduate studies at City College, NYU, Queens College, and the CUNY Graduate Center.

Nirgidma dedicated over 25 years to the New York City Department of Education as a teacher of Spanish and literature, inspiring generations of students with her passion for learning and belief in their potential. She also served as Education Director at United Bronx Parents Day Care Center.

A lifelong scholar, poet, and seeker of truth, Nirgidma filled her life—and her home—with books. She wrote poetry throughout her life, participated in literary readings across New York City, and received recognition for her work, including an award from the Círculo de Escritores y Poetas Iberoamericanos. At the time of her passing, she was preparing her poetry anthology for publication.

She traveled extensively across five continents, embracing cultures, history, and beauty with curiosity and wonder. She loved music of all kinds—from Colombian folk traditions to classical, Greek, Spanish, and Mexican rancheras. She also had a deep love for animals and shared her life with many beloved pets.

Above all, she was a devoted mother and grandmother.

She is survived by her children, Michael Murissi and Melissa Mastrangelo; her son-in-law, Nicholas Mastrangelo; and her beloved grandson, Michael Gaetano. She is also survived by her siblings Ramón, Ariel, Jesús, and Teresa, along with extended family in the United States and Colombia.

Nirgidma was a guiding light—full of wisdom, strength, humor, and soul. Her love, her words, and her spirit will live on in all who knew her.

Siempre serás nuestra vida, nuestro amor, nuestro ángel.

Until we meet again.

With love,

Melissa, Nick, Michael, and Uncle Mike

Nirgidma’s life will be honored with a Visitation at Frederick Funeral Home, 192-15 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11358, on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on April 7, 2026, at 9:45 am on Tuesday, Aril 7, 2026 at St. Kevin's RC Church, 45-21 194th St, Flushing, NY 11358.