Gladys Maldonado was born on February 11, 1930, in Ponce, Puerto Rico. She was one of 9 children. In 1944, she arrived in New York accompanied by her mother and youngest sister, Milagros. In New York, Gladys graduated from high school. She married Edward La Boy another NY transplant from Puerto Rico. Together they had two daughters, Iva and Magali. One of Glady's priorities was to make sure that her daughters were well-educated and able to fend for themselves. She was a dedicated mother who wanted to better herself and began studying to prepare for her career as a paraprofessional at P.S. 171.
Throughout her 35 year career, Gladys worked in schools such as Benjamin Franklin and Robert F. Kennedy, working with students with disabilities. She was very proud to work for the New York Department of Education and was acknowledged time and time again, and even received an award held at the Waldorf Astoria. An entrepreneur by heart, she organized "Las Amigas" bus trips to Atlantic City and Upstate New York.
Gladys loved learning and experiencing different cultures. She traveled widely, visiting countries such as Spain, Argentina, Italy, France, and Denmark. One of her last trips was to Florida to visit her great-grandchildren. Throughout her life, one of her greatest joys was being able to help raise her four granddaughters. She was a great sister, cousin, aunt, godmother, and friend. Gladys was a very strong woman who was resourceful, caring, and loving. She was always there for anyone who needed her. Her presence and smile were infectious, and she lit up a room.
Gladys is survived by one daughter Magali; sister Milagros; four granddaughters Jennifer, Stephanie, Kirsten, and Isabelle; and eight great-grandchildren Antonio, Julia, David, Luis, William, Olivia, Nicholas, and Andrew. We will remember our Mimar with her beautiful smile, grace, courage, strength, and sense of style. Gladys, we will all miss you.
- Rest in Peace.
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