GONZALEZ- With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Carmen Alicia Zayas Gonzalez, affectionately known as "La Gata," who peacefully departed on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 8:44 AM. Carmen was born on October 13, 1950, in Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, to Jesusa Gonzalez and Pedro Alejandro Zayas.

Carmen spent much of her life in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, before moving to Darien, Georgia, in 1995, and later to Jacksonville, Florida, in 2004. A passionate lover of her Puerto Rican heritage, Carmen embraced creativity, culture, and love in all aspects of her life. As a talented knitter, she found joy in creating beautiful pieces, but it was the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren that she treasured most, leaving a legacy of cherished memories. Carmen was an active participant in folkloric groups in Jacksonville, passionately preserving and promoting the traditions of Bomba y Plena Puertorriqueña.

Carmen shared 24 years of companionship with Geronimo Méndez (deceased), with whom she created countless joyful memories.

She was preceded in death by her mother: Jesusa Gonzalez; father: Pedro Alejandro Zayas; beloved sisters: Virginia and Ramona.

She is survived by her children: Sandra Santiago-Conyers (William) and Alejandro Isaac Zayas (Brittany); grandchildren: Alexandra, Michelle, Francisco, Alejandro, Malik, Jordan, De’layah, Olivia, Lissandra, De’Myah, and D’Angela, will forever hold her in their hearts; great-grandchildren: Nancy, Gael, Theo, Alianna, and Mariham—will continue to carry her love and legacy forward; siblings: Bernardo, Jose, Rafael, Sonia, Juan, and Isa, who will carry her memory with love and devotion.

Additionally, Carmen had many "bonus" children and grandchildren, who held a special place in her heart. Her nieces Edith Rosario and Lesley Tucker, and nephew Juan Carlos, showed constant love and care, ensuring their “titi” always felt surrounded by affection.

In accordance with Carmen’s wishes, there will be no traditional funeral service. Instead, a Celebration of Life will be held, with the details to be shared soon. True to her generous nature, Carmen requested that no money be spent on funeral flowers but instead asked for donations to be made toward purchasing shoes for children in group homes. A donation box will be available at the Celebration of Life for those wishing to honor her in this meaningful way.

The Celebration of Life will be held at the Latin House Grill, 5584 Timuquana Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32210, on February 16, 2025, at 2:30 PM. Carmen’s ashes will be laid to rest in her beloved Barranquitas, Puerto Rico.

Carmen’s legacy of love, strength, laughter, and cultural pride will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her.