Balbina E. Gonzalez

Balbina Esther Gonzalez, 93, of East Rockaway, New York, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on June 7, 2026.

Born on September 21, 1932, in Las Tunas, Cuba, Balbina lived a rich and full life surrounded by family and friends. She was known for her warm heart, joyful spirit, and wonderful sense of humor.

After leaving Cuba, Balbina worked hard to build a life and provide for her family. A woman of many talents, she spent 21 years at Amprobe Instrument in Lynbrook, New York, and also worked as a seamstress and nail technician.

In retirement, Balbina moved to Florida, where she became an active member of the Hialeah senior community and discovered new creative passions. She enjoyed crocheting, crafting, and painting, earning recognition and awards from the Miami City Council for her artwork. At the age of 85, she returned to New York, where she spent her remaining years surrounded by family and the loving care of her daughter.

Family was at the center of Balbina's world. She delighted in spending time with her four children, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, and took immense pride in the family she helped build.

Balbina is survived by her children, Jorge, Luis, Esther, and Odalis. She was a devoted grandmother to Eddie, Jorge Luis, Andrew, Daniel, Raquel, Alexandra, Louis, Andreas, and Miguel Angel, and a cherished great-grandmother to Andre, Max, Liam, Jack, and Andreas Jr.

Though her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in the many cherished memories she leaves behind. Balbina's laughter, kindness, creativity, and unwavering love will be deeply missed, and her family finds peace in knowing she is now resting in God's embrace.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Towers Funeral Home in Oceanside, New York.

Burial services will take place on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, New York, where a priest will offer prayers and blessings before interment. If you would like to join the family in the procession from the funeral home to the cemetery, please arrive at Towers Funeral Home at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society in honor of Balbina's memory. Contributions may be made at alz.org or American Cancer Society.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.