Martha Leto Cerra's Obituary
Martha Gail Leto Cerra, 83, of Tampa, Florida, passed away on August 25, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Lucille Leto, and her two sisters, Margaret DiChiara and Nellie Westberry. She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Ralph Cerra Jr.; daughters Jolene Novo (Joe), Dawn Redmond (David), and Allison Cerra Lagar (Francisco); her grandchildren Sarah (Hunter) and Joshua; and several nieces and nephews.
Although she was born in New York City, Martha moved to Ybor City when she was less than a year old and always considered herself a native of Tampa. She was a proud graduate of Jefferson High School and a charter member and graduate of the University of South Florida. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree from the University of Tampa. Martha was especially proud that her three children, three sons-in-law, and two grandchildren also graduated from USF, a testament to the family’s shared commitment to education.
Martha spent more than 35 years as an elementary school teacher in Hillsborough County, where she touched countless young lives with her patience, kindness, and unwavering dedication to education. She was a proud member of Pan American University Women and the Alpha Delta Kappa sorority, where she formed lifelong friendships and gave back to her community through service and leadership.
Martha’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who filled her home with love, laughter, and traditions that will carry on through generations. She cherished her time cooking family meals, celebrating holidays, and cheering on her daughters and grandchildren in all of their endeavors.
Martha was a devoted Catholic who loved the Lord and was deeply committed to her faith, which guided her throughout her life and gave her strength and peace. Her gentle spirit and warm smile made her a friend to many and a blessing to all who knew her. She never met a stranger and made everyone feel valued, leaving those around her uplifted by her kindness. Martha’s legacy lives on in the lessons she taught, the love she gave, and the example she set of a life well lived.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to physician and friend Dr. George Muthalakuzhy, as well as to Ramon and Myriam Chang and their devoted staff, for the exceptional compassion, friendship, and loving care they provided.
Pallbearers are Joe Novo, David Redmond, Francisco Lagar, Joshua Redmond, Hunter Kinsora, and Orlando Castillo. Honorary pallbearers are Allen Westberry, Jerry DiChiara, Peter DiChiara, Gregg Poirier, Jerry Comellas, Kenny Gennaro, David Demmi, and Tony Leto.
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