Cecilia Maria Laude

Born on May 15, 1960, in San Fernando, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Cecilia was the daughter of Drs. Walter and Isabella Laude, of Babson Park, Florida. Cecilia lived a life filled with kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She had a heart of gold, always ready to listen or help without hesitation.

Cecilia had a long career in nursing, starting as a community health nurse with the Hillsborough County Health Department in Tampa, then as a psychiatric nurse at Charter Hospital in Tampa, and later as a triage psychiatric nurse at Memorial Hospital in Tampa. She received numerous Employee of the Month Awards and was a very conscientious and caring nurse. She received bachelor’s degrees in German and Nursing from the University of South Florida (USF). She was an honors graduate of Lake Wales High School, a member of the Highlander Band, and an early entry student at USF. At USF, Cecilia was active in many organizations, including her sorority Kappa Alpha Theta and Mortar Board honor society, and the Intercultural Organization. She served as President of the German Club and won awards for participation in fundraising events. Always willing to help others in need, she tutored foreign students in English and served the Volunteers for International Student Affairs (VISA). She was a delegate to the Model United Nations and participated in the USF International Festival as a fashion model and piano soloist.

Cecilia played the piano throughout her life and was an active supporter of the Arts. She served as President of the Friday Morning Musicale in Tampa and volunteered with the Friends of the Florida Orchestra.

She is survived by her son Gregory Briskin, her sisters Monica and Maria Laude, and brothers Chris and Michael Laude (Kristen). Cecilia will be deeply missed for the love she gave so freely and the happiness she brought to the lives around her.

Arrangements by Blount & Curry Funeral Home-Carrollwood. Funeral Mass will be held at a later date at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in New Tampa. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Salvation Army.