Gladys Arrufat of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, at the age of 87.
Gladys was the beloved Mother of Darlene Lowe and Angel Serrano. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her four grandchildren, Elyssa Lowe, Suhaylee Torralvo, Edward Torralvo, and Angel Serrano Jr., as well as her great-grandson, Dominic Torralvo.
Gladys was born in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, to the late Felipe Arrufat and Brunilda Acevedo. She cherished the years she spent in Puerto Rico and carried those treasured memories with her throughout her life.
In 1950, Gladys moved to Philadelphia with her former husband, Francisco Serrano, where she raised her family and devoted herself to those she loved. Her role as a mother extended far beyond the traditional sense. After retiring, she lovingly cared for her grandchildren and remained a constant source of love and support for her family.
Gladys worked for many years at Temple University as an administrative assistant. She was also a talented seamstress who took great pride in her craft. Above all, Gladys treasured time with her family. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved making people laugh, and had a special ability to bring joy to those around her.
She enjoyed frequent trips to the casinos in Atlantic City, attending church, going on cruises with her sister and niece as well as other family members. She really enjoyed just celebrating life with family and friends. Gladys was truly the life of the party and could often be found on the dance floor, enjoying every moment.
She is survived by her sister, Serafina Arrufat, along with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, her niece/God daughter Eileen Aponte, extended family, and many dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Visitation will be held at Baldwin Fairchild at Chapel Hill, 2420 Harrell Road, Orlando, FL 32817, US, on September 24, 2026, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
A Funeral Mass will take place at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 5900 Oleander Dr, Orlando, FL 32807, US, on September 25, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Graveside services will be held at Queen of Angels Cemetery, 1901 Queen Of Angels Dr, Winter Park, FL 32792, US, on September 25, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm.
