Gladys A. Hernandez

Gladys A Hernandez Peña is survived by her son Nelson A Lapeiretta and grandchildren, Nelson Lapeiretta II, Nicholas A Lapeiretta, Loreto Lapeiretta, Alexander Lapeiretta, Peter Lapeiretta. She is preceded in death by her husband Pedro O Lapeiretta and her eldest son Pedro E Lapeiretta.

Gladys A. Hernández Peña was born on January 6, 1937, in Santiago, Dominican Republic, to José Pacheco and Ana Matilde Peña. She later married Pedro O Lapeiretta, an official of the Treasury of the Dominican Republic. Together, they welcomed two children, Pedro E. Lapeiretta and Nelson A. Lapeiretta, and devoted themselves to instilling in them the values of education, discipline, and dedication to hard work as foundations for becoming productive members of society. Her children remember her as a kind, gentle, patient, and driven mother who consistently encouraged them to pursue their goals.

She will be remembered by her brother Franciso Rafael Pena, sister Margarita Pena Filpo, and nephews and nieces Johnny Filpo, Lourdes L Lopez, Matilde Pena, Anselmito Pena, Isabel Pena, and so many more, as well as step-granddaughters Lisa I Vega and Maribel Vega.

Gladys A. Hernández Peña was an accomplished Physical Education educator and competitive track and field athlete who represented her country at the 1956 Central American and Caribbean Games held in Mexico. In 1987, she had the honor of participating in the ceremonial lighting of the torch alongside Chapu Rivas. She was a generous, lively, and dedicated individual who was deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world through her love for her family, friends, and students. During the years when she was in good health, she volunteered at Nativity Catholic Church. She was an avid traveler who greatly enjoyed visiting friends and family. Throughout her life, she fulfilled many cherished roles, including those of mother, aunt, sister, grandmother, step-grandmother, in-law, teacher, and many more.

A viewing is scheduled for Friday, January 6, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, followed by a reception at 2323 W. Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511. The ceremony will be officiated by her grandson-in-law, Gilbert Perez. All are welcome to attend and celebrate the life of Gladys A. Hernández Peña.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home at 2323 W. Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511. Condolences may be sent via text to (813) 390-8392.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Brisas Del Caribe—Milagros and Jose Carreno (owners), Leidis, Benita, Elodia, Maria Julia, Olga, Ally, Lizzy, Janet, Anna, and Elba—for their dedication, care, and support during this time.