It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Esmerida Gladys Manfugas (nee Rivas), passed away on November 14, 2023.
A former resident of Teaneck, NJ, formerly of Hallandale, Florida, Esmerida was born in Antilla, Cuba on December 14, 1931, to Maria Rodriguez and Raul Rivas. Esmerida was married to Gabriel Manfugas in Holguin, Cuba in 1954 and immigrated to America with their young sons, in 1967. She was a talented designer, seamstress and proprietor of the Manfugas Bridal Shop in NYC. Esmerida’s entrepreneurial spirit enabled her to help support her family by designing wedding gowns and women’s formal wear well into her late 70s. She most relished caring for, spending time with and enjoying her extended family, particularly her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Predeceased by her loving husband Gabriel and her youngest son Angel. Survived by dear sisters Zoila of Cuba; and Maria of Wisconsin. Cherished mother of Gabriel and his wife Lauraine of Palisades, NY. Proud grandmother of Nicole and husband Jonathan of Brick, NJ; Javier and wife Karolyn of Hannover, Germany; Benjamin of NYC; Stephanie of Palisades, NY; and Christopher of NYC. Adored great-grandmother of Luis, Alexis, Isabella and Ida. Loved by nieces Margaret, Laura and Carol.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, November 19, 2023 from 2:00pm-5:00pm at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ 07647. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, 199 Walnut Street, Northvale, NJ 07647 on Monday, November 20, 2023 at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers please consider contributing to Cabrini Immigrant Services, 701 Fort Washington Avenue, NYC, 10040. 212-791-4590 Ext. 100.
A private burial will be held at the Rockland Cemetery, in Sparkill, NY and will be at the convenience of the family.
www.pizzifuneralhome.com
Such a lovely photo of Esmerida
It was nice to read about her profession and of course how many others still love her
and will be able to keep her spirit alive for generations to come
Wishing the Manfugus and Donohue families a great time of reflection
The meaning of life is centered around all the memories we’ve created with family and friends
Be grateful this holiday season for all the good times and remember that you are loved by many
My deepest condolences to the family. Abuela was such an amazing woman and so very talented.
She always had a smile on her face and loved being around family. Family meant everything to her.
She will be missed but now she is with her husband and her son Angel. Rest in Paradise.
Hold on to all the beautiful memories… You will all be in my thoughts and prayers!