Carmen Nona to most of the Family and Nona to her grandchildren Mercedes Garbarino Filippini

She lived in Santo Domingo most of her young life with her family until meeting the love of her life, a handsome young Italian man who she fell in love with: Federico Filippini who swept her off her feet and started this loving family!!!!!!!!!!

She was born and raised in the Dominican Republic where she met her husband before coming to America

Carmen was a beloved mother who gave everything for her husband Federico. After Federico's death in 2007 She turned to her children for hope, for prayer, & for support, and what she gave back was unconditional love and devotion to them all. Her older son Marco was her salvation after losing her first child "Gracie" he was and became her salvation by moving in after her husband passed. She always said: "I hava da best roommate ever!"

Her daughter Annette: was her rock, strong forceful and dedicated to all her needs. Annette made a promise to her dying father: "Don't worry Papa I will take care of Moma!!" Her second son Federico Jr & wife Nadine, was there for them in times of need, providing stability through some tough financial times and was always there for them. Carmen the youngest and "Daddy's little girl, providing constant love & support for her father and mother. She was "emotion" in action! Moma would always commend her on her strong compassionate ways. She always called out to Annette & Carmen when she felt weak ... and they came running to her at any time of day!!! Gracie was the first child, lost to leukemia at 3, a loss she would endure forever.... Her best friend was CLARITA for more than 40 years she stood by her side as a truest friend. Almost like a sister and to the very end she was there for her. We thank you Clarita!!!!!! from the bottom of our hearts!!! and we love you! Evette Papa's aide, nurse and friend also became part of our family thru the years visiting mom constantly and always staying in touch... she always asked Mom to adopt her... Thank you Evette Filippini! Her grandchildren: Marco Jr., Michael, Celia, Nickolas, Gieselle, Anthony, Victoria Grace, Kayla and her Great Grandchild Alexander were all so special to her.

We were all close to mom, she was our rock!