Margarita Noriega's Obituary
NORIEGA, Margaret, 82 passed away, surrounded by her loved ones on January 14, 2015. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Jesus and Onorina Gonzalez. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Fernando Noriega, Jr. Margaret is also survived by their 2 children; Michael Noriega (Andrea) and Linda O’Connor (Tim), grandchildren; Jennifer Harman (Justin), Ryan Provenzano (Angela), Gabrielle Noriega, and Chris & Tyler O'Connor, great grandchildren; Brayden, Jamisyn, and Ashlee; her cousin/sister Norma "Mamita" Mayor; and her many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Margaret is a Godmother to 10; Violet Arden/1st godchild, Kimberly Grosswirth, Debbie Conte, Stacey Corsini, Darren Farfante (Esq.), Anthony Garcia, Ania Grever, Desiree Nelson, Mary Lou Stilo (Esq), and Elaine Woods.
The beautiful Margaret was born in Ybor City on December 27th, 1932. She resided in Dover, Florida where she was one of the first Hispanics to graduate from Turkey Creek High School. It was love at first sight when Fernando laid eyes on Margaret while at the Tea dance at the Centro Espanol in Ybor City. They got married 6 months later, on August 16th, 1953 and raised their family in West Tampa. Margaret worked for the Hillsborough County School Board for 25 years as a Teacher’s Aide and retired in 1992, to devote her time to her grandchildren.
She enjoyed making memories with her family and friends, beautifully decorating her home or working in her garden, and caring for her beloved dog, Zoya. She loved traveling the world with her husband and loved ones by her side. The family would like to extend special thanks to Mary and Manuel Alvarez and Norma and Angel Farfante for being a constant support system for Margaret down to her last days, as well as beloved friends; Martha and Hector Villa, Helen and Tony Saladino and Dr. Roy and Rose Berdeal. We also give our sincerest gratitude to the Burgundy Team of Hospice.
Margaret will be escorted by pallbearers; Ryan Provenzano, Tim O'Connor, Sindo Mayor, Patrick Mayor, Harold Brahier, Jerry Rodriguez, and honorary pallbearers; Arthur Rodriguez, Fred Burkey, and Justin Harman.
Visitation will be held at Saint Lawrence Catholic Church from 10-11:30am on Monday, January 19th, immediately followed by Mass given by Monsignor Higgins and a private burial. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the American Heart Association or charity of choice, in Margaret's honor.
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