Emma Hernandez (Barreto) Obituary (1945

Emma Hernandez (Barreto), age 73 of Springfield, MA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 5, 2019. She was born to the late Ramon Barreto and Floripe Mendez, in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico on May 30, 1945. Emma always put her children first. They were her main focus and life dedication. She was a hardworking woman, very active in the workforce. In 1986, she joined Springfield Marriott. In a very a short time, due to her work ethics and dedication, she was quickly promoted to supervisor. She enjoyed her job and took pride in all that she did. It was no surprise that her smile, positive attitude, kindness and big heart quickly led to lifelong friendships. Despite her hectic work schedule, family and friends were Emma's passion and happiness. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy. Every chance she had, Emma talked to others about them and you could hear the happiness in her voice. She was known for her selfless and big heart, always putting others before herself. For many years before her passing, what Emma enjoyed most were gatherings with her family, cooking for them, and making them laugh. She also enjoyed collecting butterflies - bright and colorful creatures, just like her personality, transforming the lives of those she touched. Today, she flies with the butterflies, forever living on in our hearts. Emma is predeceased by her loving daughter, Cynthia Stewart, a big piece of her heart. She is also predeceased by her sister Lucy Serrano and her brother Noel Barreto. She is survived by her sisters Migdalia Crespo, Norma Martinez, Nydia Treadwell, Maria Letourneau, Maggie Barreto, and Noraima Barreto and by her brothers Jose Barreto and Hector (Papo) Barreto. She will be missed by her children, the forever owners of her heart: Jessica Vega, John Hernandez, Peggy Hernandez, Laly Torres and Rafael Hernandez. She also leaves behind eighteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, all who brought so much joy to her life: Katrina Shenas, Stephanie Shenas, Nico Vega, Alexandria Vega, Adrianna Zoppoli, Justin Hernandez, Brian Hernandez, Sammy Diaz, Joshua Diaz, Alexis Diaz, Jessica Diaz, Andrew Stewart, Kelsey Stewart, Raymond Caraballo, Thalia Caraballo, Ezekiel Torres, Evan Hernandez, Sophia Hernandez, Amyas Collazo, Eros Collazo, Zeus Klaus, Julian Vega, Dameion Diaz, Dominik Diaz, Gionni Diaz, Gianna Diaz, Ricky Diaz, Leilany Diaz, J'lynn Diaz, Danny Martinez, and Jamielynn Cotto. She had several nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. She was also fortunate enough to have loving son-in-laws and daughter-in-laws along with loyal and loving friends. A memorial service honoring Emma will be held on Saturday, January 12th at 4 pm until 6 pm at Puerta Del Cielo, located at 730 State Street in Springfield, MA. The family wishes to thank those who have extended both financial and emotional support during this difficult time.