Luz Maria Gerena, 70, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Pittsburgh, PA.
Born January 17, 1955, in Puerto Rico.

Luz Maria was a passionate teacher, a gifted language translator, and a joyful salsa dancer — always laughing, always lifting spirits.

Beloved daughter, mother, sister, and friend.

Preceded in death by her husband, David Gerena.
Survived by her life partner, George Freeman, her daughter Luzmarie Gerena, her son Davidjohn Gerena (spouse Maria Gerena), and her daughter Sulimarie Gerena.

She is also survived by her sisters Lydia and Carmen, and her brother Jose “Tony” and by many nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved deeply and joyfully.

Luz Maria was the youngest of nine siblings.

She joins in rest her deceased siblings:

Rafael “Papo”

Juanita "Nani"

Rosa

Francisco “Pelón”

Rafael "Rafi"

A celebration of life will be held in New York on January 17, 2026, on what would have been her 71st birthday.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Lewy Body Dementia Association in memory of Luz Gerena:
2720 Voelkel Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216