Mendez, Maria A., 65, of Tampa passed away on Tuesday, March 20, 2012. Born in Ceiba, Puerto Rico, Mrs. Mendez had been a local resident since 1985. She was Catholic and she enjoyed reading, dancing and music. She is survived by sons, Fernando (Evelyn) Mendez, Jr.; Edgar F. (Nikole) Mendez; Angel L. (Miriam) Gomez; daughters, Yelitza A. Mendez; Maritza Lopez; Nilsa E. (Milton) Santiago; Miriam I. Gomez; Lorraine M. Mendez; sister, Crimilda (Milagros) Arrieta; 20 grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 24, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:OO p.m. at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, March 25, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to the family.