Genoveva Gelpi

Born on January 3, 1929, in San Manuel, a town in the Province of Oriente, Cuba, Genoveva began a life journey that would take her far from her birthplace but never diminish the values that defined her: family, kindness, perseverance, and an unwavering willingness to help others.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carlos Gelpi, who passed away in 1985. She was also preceded in death by her son, Carlos Gelpi, who passed away in January 2010.

Genoveva is survived by her loving daughter, Leonor Gelpi-Perez, and by a family that brought her tremendous pride and joy. Her grandchildren, in order of birth, are Denise Di'Biase, Carl Gelpi, Jennifer Gelpi, CJ Gelpi, Ellie Perez, Anna Perez, and Eric Perez. She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren.

A remarkably hardworking and independent woman, Genoveva owned and operated her own business in Astoria, New York, for 40 years. Even after those many years of dedication and hard work, she was not ready to slow down. She went on to spend another ten years owning a stall at a flea market in New York, where she sold musical instruments.

Genoveva will be remembered not only for her incredible work ethic but, more importantly, for the kind of person she was. She was kind, loving, selfless, and always willing to help others. She gave of herself freely and was someone people could depend on. Her strength was quiet but undeniable, and her love for her family was constant.

To know Genoveva was to know someone who worked hard, loved deeply, and cared genuinely about the people around her. Her life was one of perseverance and generosity, and the lessons she taught through her actions will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched.

Although she will be deeply missed, Genoveva leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, kindness, and selflessness that her family will carry with them forever.

Her life was long, her love was great, and her memory will live forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.