Iris Mercedes Giribaldi

Iris passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, in Brooklyn, New York.

Born on January 21, 1940, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, she was the beloved daughter of Georgina Camacho and Francisco Giribaldi.

One of Iris’s greatest accomplishments came after being told she could not be hired for a position because it was “only for men.” Refusing to accept that injustice, she stood up for women’s equality and broke barriers by becoming the first woman hired as a Security Officer at a New York City hospital. She proudly served the patients, families, staff, and community at Wyckoff Heights Hospital for 46 years, helping countless people and leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. To our family—and to the Bushwick community—she was a true hero.

Above all else, Iris was devoted to her family. As the loving mother of five, cherished grandmother of eight, and proud great-grandmother of nine, she built a legacy rooted in unconditional love, strength, compassion, and resilience. We will continue to honor her example by carrying forward the love, kindness, and unity she instilled in all of us.

In keeping with Iris’s wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial services.

Instead, we ask that you honor her memory by taking the time to help someone in need. Reach out to your loved ones, look after your neighbors, and never pass up an opportunity to show kindness. There is no greater tribute to Iris than continuing the generosity and compassion she shared so freely throughout her life.

On behalf of our family, thank you for the outpouring of love and support. We often hear people say, “I know Iris,” and we truly believe that to know her was to love her. She loved you, too. ❤️