Minerva "Maya" Carmelia

As we celebrate the life and legacy of this amazing woman, we reflect on a Godly woman – a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and so much more to so many.

Minerva Adina Carmelia, born, April 16, 1947, in Willemstad, Curacao, to the late Gustamante and Lillian Carmelia departed this life on April 11, 2026, in Naples, Florida. Minerva, also known as Ma or Maya, was more than a name, she was a light in the lives of all who knew her. She carried a quiet strength, a gentle spirit, and a heart that gave endlessly and selflessly. Her laughter brought comfort, her presence was a blessing, and her love was a gift that will never fade.

Born and raised in Curacao, she also has deep roots in Dominican Republic where she often spent time with family. After arriving in New York City as a young child, Minerva eagerly blazed a trail filled with many adventures and accomplishments. She learned to speak several different languages, Dutch, Spanish, French, German, Latin, Portuguese, fluently, to name a few and with a resounding pride in one of her native languages, Papiamento’s. While in the Netherlands, Minerva’s education took her to The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THAUS) and later returning to Curacao to attend R. K. Maria College where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Law. Her academic achievements laid a foundation for a dynamic and impactful career that spanned several industries and leadership roles.

Later settling in Randallstown, Maryland, Minerva’s professional career as an Accounts Receivable Manager led her to walk through the doors of companies such Spine and Sports Rehabilitation, WilScot formerly William Scotsman Inc. and Sylvan Learning Center. Minerva opted for a slower pace of life out of the cold when she relocated to Naples, Florida. She found joy in the simple everyday pleasures, morning coffee on the patio, her plants and garden, a good Tela Novela, music, cooking for others, crocheting or just spending time with family. These moments, seemingly small, became the threads that wove together a life rich with meaning.

To know Minerva was to understand that personality can be a kind of gravity. She had a way of drawing people in, whether through a quick wit that could lighten the heaviest room, a quiet kindness that never asked for recognition, or a stubborn streak that ensured she stood firmly for what she believed in. She was the kind of person who always greeted you with a smile, never showed up empty-handed, always ready to help, remembered the smallest details, laughed loudly and often, and her best trait, making strangers feel like family. Her presence was both steady and vibrant: someone you could rely on but never take for granted.

More than anything, Minerva will be remembered for how she made people feel. Seen. Heard. Valued. Loved. Her impact lives on in the countless lives touched, family, friends, and even brief acquaintances who walked away better for having crossed her path.

Leaving behind a legacy defined not just by milestones, but by the unmistakable way she moved through the world, Minerva leaves to cherish her memory Reginaldo Carmelia, Prisca James, Angel Carmelia (Beverly), Kamonte Grimes, Kai Grimes, Torrey Grimes, Tyler Whye, along with a host of other family and friends who will carry forward stories, lessons, and most importantly her spirit.

She was preceded in death by her father, Gustamante Carmelia; her mother, Lillian Carmelia; and three brothers, Mario Creame, Fausto Richardson and Vicente F. Carmelia, Sr.

A truly cherished soul, Minerva’s kindness, grace, and unwavering compassion touched countless lives. She had a rare ability to bring warmth into every room and peace into every heart. Her wisdom and generosity created a legacy of love that will continue to live on through all those she held dear. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we are forever grateful for the time, love, and memories we were blessed to have shared with her.

In the end, Minerva Adina Carmelia reminds us that a person’s essence is not measured in years, but in presence and hers was unforgettable.

“I thank my God every time I remember you” (Philippians 1:3 NIV).

Thursday April 30, 2026

Visitation 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Hodges Funeral Home

525 111th Avenue North, Naples, Florida 34108

Friday May 1, 2026

Visitation 12:00 PM | Services 12:30 PM

The Naples Church

10910 Immokalee Road, Naples, Florida 34120