Awilda Diaz

Awilda Diaz was a modest woman, quiet and observant in her ways. She was trustworthy and traditional in her approach to her life and in her relationships. She was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew her. She was also a woman who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything she undertook. Realistic about life, she was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

Awilda was born on October 11, 1927 in Caguas, Puerto Rico. She was the daughter of Manuel and Carmen Juncos. Awilda grew up in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

Awilda was raised with two siblings. She had two younger brothers John and Rafael. Awilda was usually involved in all sorts of activities with her siblings. She and her siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

As a young girl, Awilda had a number of interests. Like most children, she enjoyed playing and making up games. She was curious about the world around her and was often eager to explore it. In her spare time she liked reading, jigsaw puzzles, music and dancing. However, to Awilda, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with her friends.

Always considered a “good” friend to those she knew, Awilda enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during her lifetime. Later in life, she became friends with John and Eloina Alameda, Oscar and Gloria Calderon and Raul and Angelina Alicea.

Awilda married Julio Diaz on October 11 in New York City Hall. Empathic and loyal, Awilda was committed to making her new family happy.

Awilda worked hard to be a good mother to her children and she did her best to fulfill their needs. Awilda was blessed with two children, one son, Julio and one daughter, Maria. Another blessing for Awilda was the gift of five grandchildren, Aubree, Nicholas, Morgan, Christopher and Ricardo.

Fortunately, Awilda enjoyed what she did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Awilda worked diligently and did her best to succeed in her career. Her primary occupation was seamstress. She was employed for many years by several manufactures of bathing suits. Awilda always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Awilda enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were music, dancing, crocheting and reading. She was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others.

Awilda found pleasure in sports. Awilda was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following her favorite events whenever she had the chance to do so. Tops on her list were baseball and boxing.

Awilda was a woman who took pride in upholding her beliefs. Politically, Awilda was a supporter of the Democrat Party.

Awilda enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for her to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Mexico.

Awilda was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Skippy, a Foxterian/Pomeranian. They were best friends for 12 years. Her family was rounded out by her Poodle Skippy 2.

When Awilda’s retirement finally arrived in 1989, she was well prepared. Her new life involved relocating to Riverside, California. In retirement, she found new pleasure in gathering with friends, playing dominoes, listening to music and dancing. Even in retirement, Awilda continued to stay in touch with her old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Awilda was active in her new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered her.

Awilda passed away on December 31, 2010 at Colonial Manor in West Covina, California. She is survived by her children Julio Diaz, Jr., Maria Diaz-Calderon, grandchildren Aubree, Nicholas, Morgan, Christopher and Ricardo, great-grandchildren Cameryn, Logyn, Kenidey, Preston and Noah and her brother Juan Juncos. Services were held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Baldwin Park, California. Awilda was laid to rest in Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, California.

Simply stated, Awilda was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Awilda leaves behind her a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Awilda Diaz.