Carmen Maria Gerena Morales Ruiz, born on April 28, 1933 in Humacao, Puerto Rico, passed away on November 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and the unwavering matriarch of her family, Carmen lived a life defined by courage, generosity, and steadfast devotion.

She was the devoted spouse of Carlos Ruiz, with whom she shared a lifetime of partnership, resilience, and family-centered joy. She was the cherished mother of Judith Adams, and the proud grandmother of Kimberly Dijohn and Jessica Best, along with Jessica's husband, Christian Best, whom she loved as a grandson. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought a new wave of joy into her life: Giselle Dijohn, Piers Best, and Ella Best.

After immigrating to the United States, Carmen became the heart, strength, and steady hands of her family's new beginning. She made it her mission to bring her loved ones — one by one — from Puerto Rico, ensuring that each had a safe place to land and the opportunity to build a better future. Her home quickly became the anchor for extended family, friends, neighbors, and anyone in need: a place marked by comfort, warmth, generosity, and unconditional love.

Her hospitality was legendary. Whether she was feeding an entire neighborhood at Thanksgiving or offering a bed to someone who needed time to get back on their feet, Carmen never closed her door or her heart. She carried her culture, her values, and her deep compassion into everything she did, quietly shaping the lives of everyone around her.

Her legacy lives on in the countless people she supported, nurtured, guided, and uplifted. Carmen's family will forever honor the life she built, the sacrifices she made, and the love she gave so freely.

In honor of Carmen's compassionate spirit, donations may be made to end Alzheimer's using the following link: Alzheimer's Association