Nereida Lopez Sunnerklint's Obituary
Nereida (Nettie) Lopez-Sunnerklint was a wife, widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, titi and friend. During her favorite holiday, Christmas, she left this world suddenly at age 77.
She was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico to Bernardo Lopez and Francisca Gonzalez on January 27, 1947. Part of the Great Migration of Puerto Ricans to New York City, she called New York City home. As a young Puerto Rican girl in New York during the 1950s, hopes and dreams were born. She chased a better life for her daughters, moving from the inner city of New York to suburban neighborhoods. Nettie was unstoppable at learning new things, taking on new interests, and setting up a home.
Nettie loved spending time in the kitchen preparing and sharing Puerto Rican meals with everyone. She was known for welcoming neighborhood children into her home, on outings, and around the dining room table. She was ready with wisdom to all who needed an ear. Her mother’s heart welcomed younger family members into her home to live. A US Army Veteran, she loved America. An original DIY influencer, she found joy in crafts such as knitting and making wedding souvenirs.
She is survived by daughters Cynthia Silvestre and Dorinda Wexler, grandson Paul Mathews II, and great-granddaughter Brianna Julia Mathews.
An intimate celebration of Nettie’s life will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Steverson, Hamlin & Hilbish Chapel, 226 E. Burleigh Boulevard, Tavares, FL 32778. Family and friends are invited to gather, in person or virtually at 11:00 am for a one-hour viewing, followed by a Funeral.
As Nettie loved plants, planting a Memorial Tree is a wonderful way to support the family and the environment.
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