Evelyn

Gonzalez

Family and friends, thank you for being here to honor my sister, Evelyn Gonzalez.

Twelve years ago, my family decided to take on the responsibility of caring for Evelyn.    That decision began a journey filled with commitment, love, and guided family structure.   The family with Carmen dedicating her days to providing Evelyn with a life filled with dignity, fostering her independence, life skills, and work skills.

Evelyn was a sparkle of light. She had an infectious smile that knew no prejudice—a smile that greeted everyone with pure love. Despite her disabilities, Evelyn never let them define her. Instead, she used that incredible smile to connect with the world and to show that she was just as important, just as loved, and just as deserving of happiness as anyone else.

She loved life and was always on the move. She truly enjoyed going to work and spending time with her friends there. She loved the simple joys—trips to the mall to pick out new earrings, or visits to the 99c store to find the perfect coloring books. From trips to the beach and movies to our special travels to Puerto Rico, Evelyn was an adventurer.

Although she was disabled, Carmen and I never allowed that to keep her from accessing the world. We made sure she had a life just like yours and mine—a life full of joy, independence, and deeply rooted in family.

Evelyn showed us that love has no boundaries and that a smile can change a room. She will be missed, but her infectious smile will live in our hearts forever.