Gladys Lucrecia Monteagudo

Gladys Lucrecia Monteagudo, beloved wife, mother, and cherished member of her extended family, passed away on the morning of October 30, 2025, at Kindred Hospital in Tampa, Florida. She was 86 years old.

Born in Trinidad, Cuba, on March 15, 1939, to Fulgencio Gonzalez Rodriguez and Trinidad Chaviano Santos, Gladys was the younger of two children and shared a close bond with her older brother, Carlos Gonzalez. In 1959, she married Guillermo Monteagudo, and along with other family members, immigrated to the United States in 1966. After a few years in Perth Amboy, New Jersey—where she welcomed the birth of her daughter, Iraida—the family moved to Florida and built a life filled with love and unforgettable memories in Tampa.

Gladys, who was affectionately called Nina by her family and friends, was a devoted mother and wife, and brought warmth and joy to all who knew her. She was known for her playful nature, her deep love of family, and her passion for cruising. Before her illness, she found immense joy in spending time with those closest to her and traveling with them whenever possible. She was a seasoned cruiser, having sailed on over 50 voyages and spending more than 250 nights on the open seas.

She was also celebrated for her skill as a seamstress and her ability to prepare some highly coveted dishes in the kitchen, including chicharitas, pasta de bocadito, and a variety of Cuban deserts.

Gladys is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, her devoted daughter, and a large extended family of beloved nieces, nephews, godchildren, and cousins who adored her deeply and will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Gladys’ life will be held on Friday, November 7th, at Garden of Memories, 4207 E. Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610. The viewing will begin at 12 PM. Family and friends are welcome to attend and may send flowers in her honor – she loved them.

Gladys’ beautiful spirit, and legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will continue to live on in all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Entombment will take place at Garden of Memories Cemetery, E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610, on November 7, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 2:15 pm.