Mercedes Jimenez Blanco, 78, dedicated mother and abuela in Tampa FL, lost her struggle with vascular dementia on September 19th. Her passing was most peaceful as she was surrounded by her loved ones in her final moments.
Mercedes was born in San Juan Puerto Rico to Francisca Navarro and Frank Jimenez on September 24, 1945. She graduated from Escuela Superior Central High in 1964 and became a performer at San Juan’s Chinese Theater. She had a life long love for dancing on and off the stage.
Her young adult life was enriched with the blessings of her children, Annette and Byron. Passionate to provide the best for her kids, Mercedes followed her vision for a new life and moved to New York. There, she meets and marries her new love, Byron Christianoudis, Sr. With her background in the Arts, and her beautiful voice, she joined a local rock band as lead singer.
The family made their way to Florida where Mercedes worked hard in her community. From ownership of a small grocery store, to later working at Sarasota’s Columbia Restaurant for many years, her skills lead her to open her own restaurant – Mercedes Place. After becoming a grandmother, Mercedes moved to Tampa to be closer to family.
With a competitive nature, Mercedes loved playing dominos and cards with friends. She was also a fervent fan of baseball. Go Rays! She had a little Dachshund she named Jeter after the famed Yankee player…obviously, first a fan of the Yankees.
Mercedes was a woman of faith. Her relationship with God continued to evolve and deepen throughout her life. She is survived by her daughter Annette, son Byron Jr., her grandchildren Katrina and Amanda, and son-in-law Bobby. She will be missed, and remembered fondly by other beloved family members and close friends.
Funeral services will be held 4:00pm to 6:00pm on Monday, September 23rd at Gonzalez Funeral Home, with Pastor Tony Byrd of Morning Star Church officiating. We are thankful to those who will join us in celebrating the life of Mercedes Jimenez Blanco.
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