Clementina Ruiz

Clementina Ruiz, born on December 7, 1942, in Carolina, Puerto Rico, passed away on November 20, 2024, in Stamford, Connecticut. She cherished her family deeply, leaving behind her beloved children: Luz Ruiz Duque, Ana Ruiz, Maribel Fajardo, Jesus Ruiz, Marisol Ortiz, and Isabel Modaffari. Her legacy also lives on through her 15 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, who will fondly remember her loving guidance and support as well as a host of friends and family that will miss her dearly.

Clementina was also a cherished sister, being one of 18 siblings herself. She is survived by three brothers and four sisters, with whom she shared the joys and burdens of life. She took joy in recounting memories of her late father, Mariano Dominquez, and late mother, Librada Carmona Rohena.

Clementina was a proud single mother with a warrior spirit. She was known for her calm demeanor and was clear in her convictions. Her presence appeared stoic amidst adversity, but in reality she was the rock her family needed and yielded her passion when it was needed. 

She maintained a deep love for her native island and its culture, sharing it with anyone curious to learn more about her and her people through her cooking, music, and dancing. She embodied a unique blend of earnestness and kindness that left a lasting impression on her family and friends.

Clementina was a beacon in her community. To say she could feed a village is an understatement – one of her greatest joys was to give to her community through her heartfelt cooking, and she cooked in abundance to make sure all had a plate to take home. She had a gifted green thumb, winning awards and recognition from the city of Bridgeport for her garden and neighborhood beautification efforts. She was actively involved in her church community as a dedicated member of El Buen Pastor Church in Bridgeport, CT, for many years. She carried a strong moral compass with her at all times and her faith and determination were evident .

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Clementina's life and the love she shared at Good Shepherd Christian Church in Bridgeport, CT. Visitation will take place on November 29, 2024, from 5 PM to 8 PM and again on November 30, 2024, from 9 AM to 10 AM, followed by a burial service at Mt. Grove Easton Cemetery in Easton, CT, beginning at 10:30 AM.

Clementina Ruiz will be deeply missed, but her spirit and unwavering love will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.