Nilda Martinez Inclan, a longtime Bronx resident, died Thursday, September 17. She was 80 years old.
Nilda was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico on February 7, 1940 to the late Domingo Martinez and Barbara Gordon Martinez. Her family moved to New York when she was 3 years old and settled in the Bronx. After graduating from Walton High School, Nilda worked as a school crossing guard. She later worked at Liberty and Ellis Island, and received three certificates honoring her 20+ years of dedicated service, which she was very proud of.
In her latter years, Nilda was a vibrant community member of Regency Extended Care Center in Yonkers, where she made many beautiful friendships with residents and staff, and enjoyed karaoke, bingo, and live entertainment.
Nilda was known for her ear-to-ear smile, her warmth, generosity, and unique style. The quintessential Nuyorican, she loved music, especially doo-wop and dancing. Nilda’s zest for life and love for the Lord inspired and captivated many. In the days before her death, she spoke to her family about heaven and the beauty that awaited her there, and all who trust in Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
Nilda is survived by her daughter Nilsa, her granddaughter Danielle, her sister Marylou, and many friends and family. In addition to her mother Barbara, she is predeceased by her brothers Reinaldo and Rudy and her sister Gladys.
Visiting took place Monday, September 21 from 4-8 pm at Lloyd Maxcy & Sons Beauchamp Chapel, 16 Shea Place, New Rochelle, with a Christian service at 7 pm. Interment followed at Greenwood Union Cemetery in Rye, New York. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation to Voice of the Martyrs or LIFE Outreach International: Mission Feeding.