Gisela R. Castaneda, 103, went home to her heavenly Father and was greeted by her devoted Husband on November 26, 2018. She was born in Cuba to Bienvendo and Graciela Rodriguez and was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel M. Castaneda.

Gisela is survived by her son, Daniel (Florinda); affectionately known as "Abuela" to grandchildren- Danny (Kathy), John (Jamie), Juanito, Donna, Melissa, Jennifer (George) and Kimberly; great-grandchildren- Ally (Trey), Nicholas, Kady, Colton, Gardner Leigh and Whit.

After fleeing Cuba in 1962, Gisela came to the United States and worked diligently. One of her greatest accomplishments was gaining her United States citizenship in 1976. With a compassionate heart to help others, she served as a Nurse's Assistant at St. Vincent's Healthcare in Jacksonville. Gisela volunteered for many years with the Community Kosher Nutrition Program at Mount Carmel Terrace Apartments for those who were unable to serve themselves, as she herself felt very blessed and desired to help others less fortunate. She also spent countless hours working with Veterans at the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. She was a devout Catholic and active member of San Jose Catholic Church.

The family would like to thank the staff at Taylor Residences, who provided the best care for Gisela over the 38 years she was a resident.

Family to receive friends at Taylor Residences Community Center, 6701 Chester Ave Jacksonville, FL on Saturday, December 1, 2018 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm. Funeral Mass to follow at 3:00 pm at San Jose Catholic Church, 3619 Toledo Rd Jacksonville, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital – 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org/tribute .

Funeral Arrangements have been handled by DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory in Maitland, FL.