Targelia Jimenez, 100, of Stamford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at her home on February 4, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Targelia was born on January 18, 1924, in Latacunga, Ecuador to the late Abraham Jimenez and Amelia Mena.
Targelia will be fondly remembered for her remarkable strength, quick wit, infectious humor, and a touch of sarcasm that could brighten any room. Her life’s journey was marked by resilience and compassion, traits that became the foundation of her enduring legacy.
From a very young age, Targelia faced adversity head-on when she was orphaned and took on the responsibility of looking after her siblings. This early experience forged her indomitable spirit and instilled in her a sense of determination that defined her throughout her life.
Targelia’s journey to Stamford, CT in January of 1961 marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with hard work, dedication, and meaningful connections. She worked tirelessly to establish a foundation in the United States, laying the groundwork for a better future for her two children, Martha and Hector. Through her dedication and determination, she not only provided for them but also instilled in them the values of hard work and perseverance.
Upon arriving in the United States, Targelia started her career as a housekeeper and provided invaluable support to numerous influential families in Fairfield County. Targelia’s commitment to her work went beyond mere employment; it became a lifelong dedication to the well-being of the families she served. Her tireless efforts were evident in the long hours she devoted to her profession, often working seven days a week. Targelia’s work ethic was matched only by her genuine care for the families she served; to her, they were not just employers, but cherished friends to which she cultivated meaningful bonds that lasted a lifetime.
Targelia, a woman of diverse passions and endless love, will be remembered for the richness she brought to the lives of those around her. Her interests were as varied as her heart was deep, and she found joy in the simple yet profound aspects of life. Targelia expressed her creativity through the art of knitting, generously bestowing to family and friends many beautiful creations that mirrored the warmth and intricacy of her own spirit, and her culinary talents filled many homes with aromas of delicious food and the warmth of shared moments. And in moments of reflection and spiritual connection, Targelia turned to the rosary, finding solace and strength in her faith. Her devotion was not only a personal practice but also a testament to the depth of her spiritual connection.
In a beautiful turn of events, when Targelia needed support in the last few years of her life, her children reciprocated the love and care she had shown them over the years and embraced the responsibility with incredible care and devotion. Their actions spoke volumes about the strength of the family ties Targelia cultivated throughout her life which exemplified the profound and reciprocal nature of familial bonds – Targelia’s hard work and sacrifices created a foundation upon which her children could build, and in return, they became pillars of support for her in her later years.
Targelia’s love knew no bounds; even in her final days, she showed the true colors of her compassionate heart by expressing concern for the well-being of the family she was leaving behind. Her selflessness shone through as she reassured them, expressing readiness for the next chapter and encouraging them not to be saddened by her departure.
Her life, marked by the beauty she found in every stitch, flavor, and prayer, serves as a testament to the richness that can be found in the simple joys of life. Targelia’s love, resilience, and readiness to embrace life’s transitions are threads that weave through the tapestry of her existence, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of sharing in her laughter, love, and strength.
In the tapestry of Targelia’s life, each family member and friend held a special place, and her love wove a thread of unity and strength among them. Her kindness, generosity, and genuine care created a nurturing environment where everyone felt valued and cherished. These beautiful reflections capture the essence of Targelia’s remarkable life and the profound impact she had on those around her. Her journey was one of resilience, love, and unwavering dedication to both her relationships and profession, and she leaves behind a legacy of service, friendship, and love.
As we reflect on her legacy, may Targelia’s spirit continue to inspire us to cherish the simple joys, share love without limits, and face life’s challenges with the same grace and courage that she exemplified throughout her remarkable journey. In carrying forward the spirit of her unconditional love, may we cultivate bonds that withstand the tests of time, creating a legacy of warmth, kindness, and enduring connections in her honor. Que dios te bendiga.
Targelia is survived by her children; Martha Autuore and her husband Frank and Hector F. Jimenez and his wife Donna, her grandchildren; Elizabeth Kulish, Karla Sorrentino and her husband Nicholas, Jennifer Grant and her husband Andrew, and Christopher Jimenez and his wife Kathryn. Her great-grandchildren Ryan Kulish, Henry Grant, Calvin Grant, Sophia Jimenez, Brooklyn Sorrentino, Jagger Sorrentino. She is also survived by her sister Tarcila Gracia and several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Targelia is predeceased by her siblings, Rosenda Jimenez and Luis Jimenez.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Maurice Roman Catholic Church, 358 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT, on Friday, February 9, 2024 at 10:00 AM. A private interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, Hecker Avenue, Darien, CT. There will be no calling hours.
The family requests that Memorial Contributions be made in Targelia’s memory to Constellation Hospice; 14 Westport Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com.
