In Loving Memory of Carmen Lydia Figueroa

Carmen Lydia Figueroa, affectionately known as "Ita" to family and friends, was born on June 25, 1939, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. She went to be with the Lord at 3:15 pm on December 21, 2023, in Saint Cloud, FL, surrounded by her loving family.
She began working at the young age of 8 to help support her mother and her seven siblings. In 1963, she pursued her passion for cosmetology at the New York Beauty School, later establishing Ita's Beauty Salon in 1965. She worked closely with her sister, Isabel Basilio. On January 18, 1974, Carmen achieved a significant milestone by earning her GED, a reflection of her love for learning. She had a beautiful smile and a sweet, serving spirit. She was generous with her possessions and her time. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels and helped many individuals in her community. She was very well known for her exceptional cooking, specifically her signature lentil rice. She loved to cook for family gatherings.

Carmen was first married to Ervin Ruiz, with whom she had two children, Melvin and Elliot. She then married Jose Figueroa, with whom she had twins, Ricardo and Ana Maria. Although Melvin has gone on to be with the Lord, Carmen is survived by her remaining children, Elliot, Ricardo, and Ana Maria. Carmen's love for her children knew no bounds. She consistently went above and beyond to ensure their safety and well being.

Her legacy extends to her cherished grandchildren: Nicole Ruiz, Kaelin Ruiz, Justin El Ruiz, Christian Isaiah Ruiz, Judah Allen, and Chloe Nicole Allen, as well as her great-grandchild, Angelo James Daddona.

Her unwavering faith in Jesus was evident in her daily life. Carmen fearlessly spoke about His Goodness and salvation, reading the Bible faithfully, praying for her family, and eagerly anticipating the glorious return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In honoring Carmen's memory, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a spirit that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.