Cristina Maria Jimenez's Obituary
Our beloved mother, Cristina “Tati” Jimenez, passed away peacefully on September 8th, 2022. She was 71.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Roberto Jimenez, loving children Christie Jimenez-Lee, Melissa Jimenez, and Michelle Jimenez, her sister Gema Lopez and nephews Frankie and Paul Lopez, her son-in-law Benjamin Lee, her granddaughter Delia Lee, her dog Freddy, and her “first daughter,” Ivette Tanis.
She is preceded in death by her parents Luis and Esperanza Gutierrez, her brother-in-law Frank Lopez, and her beloved dog Bailey.
Cristina was born on September 9, 1950 in Havana, Cuba. At only 11 years old, she bravely set out as the first in her family to move to the United States. She led her family from a young age.
She met her husband in Gainesville, Florida, and they were together for more than 46 years. Her devotion to family only strengthened as they started their own. Cristina was happiest when she was with her family and would do anything for them. She was a fearless firecracker - incredibly generous, loving, kind, and funny (even if it was sometimes unintentional). Everyone loved her, and people knew her everywhere she went. She was such a bright light to anyone she came in contact with.
She had a deep love for Jesus, Mother Mary, and her angels. She always trusted that God had a plan for her.
Her last moments, like her, were full of love and laughter. After her sister made a joke about her upcoming birthday, she smiled, laughed, and said “Ay mi hermanita, you’re so funny,” then she turned her head and closed her eyes and passed in that sweet moment between sisters.
A friend put it perfectly: “She left in the light of laughter and love and I think that speaks volumes of her life and existence.” She laughed and she left.
Mass will be held Friday, September 16th at 4PM at St. Louis Catholic Church (7270 SW 120th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156), followed by a celebration of her life from 5-9PM in the church's Assembly Hall. If you are sending flowers to the church, please send sitting arrangements, rather than standing. Refreshments will be served.
What’s your fondest memory of Cristina?
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Share a story where Cristina's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Cristina you’ll never forget.
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