In the early hours of October 18 th , Luz Nereida Rivera peacefully passed into eternity, surrounded by her family. Luz was born on November 26, 1950, in Ponce, Puerto Rico. She spent her early life on the island before moving to the states in 1983. She is a graduate of Ponce High School and attended Pontificia Universidad Católica de Puerto Rico where she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Luz was known for her vibrant and witty personality. She was always quick on her feet for a funny joke, and all who knew her were prepared to laugh until their stomachs hurt when she was around. Any time you were with Luz, you knew you would be in for an adventure. A small trip to the grocery store could end in a lengthy journey full of laughter.

As a Registered Nurse, she was loved by all who were under her care. With her gentle and compassionate touch, she did more than cure with bandages and arm slings - the way she cared for her patients was medicine for the soul. But, most importantly, as a mother, she was fiercely dedicated to her husband, children, and siblings. She loved spending time with her family, window shopping with her daughters and drinking a good cup of coffee.

Luz is survived by her husband of 36 years, Juan Miranda; her two daughters, Andria (Brett) Miranda-Rivera and Laura (John) Miranda-Rivera; and two siblings, Milagros Rivera and Salvador (Emily) Rivera. Luz also leaves behind an extensive family and loving friends who mourn the loss of an amazing woman.

A Celebration of Life for Luz will take place on Thursday, October 26 th at 4 pm at Serenity Meadows, 6919 Providence Road, Riverview, FL 33578. Attendees are encouraged to wear something purple in honor of Alzheimer's awareness.

Although our time with Luz feels much too short, we take comfort in knowing we lived a full life with her. She is now rejoicing in heaven with her parents, Salvador Rivera and Felicita Bernard, and her beloved sister, Rosa Esther Rivera. Although our broken hearts are inconsolable, we feel a sense of relief knowing she is free from her disease at last.