Nemensia Guggino

My Grandmother who was my Mom was a warm, compassionate, vibrant soul, one who literally lit up a room whenever she entered, right up until she became less able to get around.

Mom was a popular lady with quite a sense of humor and very friendly. She enjoyed spending time chatting with people. She was full of joy and always eager to help out, no matter what the problem was. She helped so many including some of those here in this very room. She was a proud and dignified woman who had a passion for life.

Mom was born in Juncos, Puerto Rico and move to NYC as a young adult. There she met my grandfather Jimmie Guggino, started a family and got married in Tampa.

Being a mother of 3 boisterous children Olga, Jimmie & Jackie plus raising me as her own. She has a hard time juggling the demands of us all, but she never complained at her unenviable task, nor did she ever turn anyone away-be it family, friends or local faces wanting to stop by.

Mom had inherent love of music-in particular, the music of Jose Luis Rodriguez aka El Puma. She would always find time to put on one of his songs and sing.

When Grandpa died in 1984, she thrived, through in her own way-always keeping busy, never feeling sorry for herself

My last memories of Mom are simple: she was a hard-working, passionate figure of strength who never waned in her support or love of her family, and who soldiered on, even when times were tough.

It is with great sadness but yet a privilege for me to write this eulogy to express everything she gave in her lifetime. All the warmth she shared with her 3 children, 7 Grandchildren, 17 Great Grandchildren, 18 great, great grandchildren We all were lucky enough to create memories with her during her precious time on earth. We are going to miss your infamous words of “hello sweetheart”, the “I love you and “God Bless You”. God only knows how much we all need blessings. Now you can look down on us from heaven above.

You may be gone on earth, but you will live forever in our hearts. We love you Mom!