MENENDEZ, Melinda, 72, passed away on July 4, 2013 in Tampa, FL. Melinda was born and raised in Ybor City, FL and graduated from Jefferson High School, Class of 1960. She loved the beach, dancing, and music but the most important thing to her was her family and her friends. Melinda was a very social person and she always enjoyed meeting new people. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved brother, Carlos A. Menendez III. Melinda is survived by her daughters, Denise Lala Thomson (Wayne) and Michelle Lala, her grandson, the love of her life, Zachary Thomson, sister Judith Rivero, sister-in-law Elaine Menendez, four nephews and many cousins. A visitation will take place from 5 to 7PM at Gonzalez Funeral Home on Wednesday July 10, 2013 with funeral services beginning at 7PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.