Nereida Orona, a cherished matriarch and beacon of warmth in her community, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in her home in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Born on September 16, 1934, in Puerto Rico, Nereida's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and the love she cultivated around her.

The daughter of the late Antonio Orona and Adela Hernandez, Nereida inherited a legacy of strength and resilience. Nereida's legacy is lovingly carried on by her five devoted children: Ismael Barbosa, Edgardo Barbosa, Eric Barbosa, Alexis Barbosa, and Nerian Bracero. Each of them embodies her spirit in their own unique ways, from the strength of character to the kindness they extend to others. Her five grandchildren, Nahir Semiday, Alexis Barbosa Jr., Melissa Barbosa, Edgardo Barbosa Jr., and Nathaniel Barbosa, will remember their grandmother as a guiding star, always encouraging them to reach for their dreams with the same determination she exemplified. She also leaves behind her siblings, Adelaida Orona, Nivia Orona, Nilda Orona, Mariana Orona, and Eleuterio Orona, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. Each one of them will carry forward the memories and the lessons learned from their sister, who was a cornerstone of their family.

Nereida's academic achievements were marked by her graduation with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration in Puerto Rico, which paved the way for a successful career in Public Relations. Her professional journey was characterized by her exceptional communication skills, her innate ability to connect with people, and her unwavering dedication to her work.

Beyond her career, Nereida's life was rich with passions and hobbies. She had an unmatchable zeal for the game of bingo, which was more than a pastime; it was a social thread that connected her to many friends and community members. Her laughter and excitement were infectious, and she was known for her ability to light up any room she entered.

Services: Private services at the convenience of the family. Nereida's services have been entrusted to Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.