Marilyn Alvarez

the morning of Tuesday March 4, 2025, at Tampa General Hospital after extensive complications

from double lung transplant surgery.

Mom was born Marilyn Santiago to Olga Luz Rodriguez on March 18, 1961. She is

survived by her three children, Henry, Olga and Erica and six grandchildren who were her joys

and driving forces in every season of her life.

While much of Mom’s life had been a series of trials of adversity, misfortune, trauma,

and great physical and spiritual pain, she remained tenacious and resilient despite them and

because of them. This was especially evident in the way that she single-handedly raised, loved

and supported us and her grandchildren. It was evident in the way that she cherished her

friendships. It was most evident in the way that she devoted her life to living fully, loudly and

authentically.

Mom was a fierce pursuer of love, of faith, of knowledge, and of adventure. She was an

abundant granter of grace, compassion, and forgiveness. Her sense of humor, candor, and wisdom

are missed beyond measure. We give you thanks for the honor of being your children. We give

the Lord thanks for the blessing of being our mother.