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Gloria Nieves Obituary
Gloria Nieves hadn't dreamed of emptying wastebaskets when she left her home in Colombia 20 years ago to come to New York. She was known throughout her village as the girl who loved to dance, who moved with a merengue beat in every step.
"When we were growing up, all my uncles liked to dance and she was always the first one they danced with," said Luz Marina Ortiz, Ms. Nieves's niece.
Ms. Nieves married and had a child, but the marriage did not last. She had to work, more than dance, if she was going to support herself. She did what she could.
Five years ago she took a job cleaning offices at Fiduciary Trust International, becoming a foot soldier in the army that kept the World Trade Center functioning.
In recent years Ms. Nieves, 48, was too tired to go out dancing very often, and most nights she stayed home with her son, Christian. But if there was a party anywhere in Jackson Heights, Queens, where she lived, the hosts knew that Ms. Nieves would be the first guest to arrive and the last to leave.
"In spite of everything, she was often smiling," said Adelma Reyes, Ms. Nieves's older sister. "Few were the times when she was unhappy."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
SJ. Friscia III
July 9, 2015
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Mary Barber
September 11, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family on this day.
natalia
September 11, 2007
I think of your family often.
P Tabbernor
January 16, 2007
In memory....
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Kristine
November 17, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Tina Cassata
August 9, 2003
I recently attended a fundraiser for a friend of mine who was a firefighter and was lost on September 11, 2001. At the dinner bracelets were distributed bearing the names of other victims, I received one bearing the name Gloria Nieves. I have read about Gloria and from the heartfelt stories from her friends and family I was touched but what a lovely woman she was. Her many friends and family have wonderful memories of the lively and interesting person that she was. Her memory lives with those that cared for her - please know that she is in my prayers now and I proudly wear the bracelet that bears her name. We were all touched by that terrible day but through our combined prayers and support I hope those that the victims left behind can find comfort. God Bless Gloria, her family and friends. The prayers of my family and myself are with you all.
Ruth Conley
May 20, 2003
Gloria was my aunt. And she is dearly missed by all of us here in Elmira, NY. Especially my grandmother Lois Kelsey. We all miss her and love her each and every day that passes and our thoughts are with the rest of the family. God Bless everyone
Erica Johnson
September 10, 2002
I do not know Ms. Nieves personally, but I wanted to leave a little note of appreication for all her dedication to her work. I received an assignment to find 11 people who unfortunately fell victims of 9-11, and write about what I learned about them. Ms. Nieves was a very passionate, loving woman who cherished life. I offer the family and friends of Ms. Nieves my prayers and my thoughts. Good luck to you all. God Bless.
Sherryn Malm
September 8, 2002
I am praying for you and your son. I hope that you are the man whom i met down at ground 0 on Feb 12, 02. I was the Red Corss worker who huggged you and you told me about Gloria and gave me a mass card. I have been thinking about you since then. God bless, If you are or are not the person whom I met would you please let me know. thanks and God Bless,'I also want you to know that I will be singing the Mozart Requiem in hiher memory on Wednesday. . God Bless, Sherryn
Angie Campbell
May 7, 2002
May God Bless you and watch over the family and friends that you left behind on 9/11/01.
Nicole Effress
May 4, 2002
Hi,
My mother is Rita Blau. She worked with Gloria at Fiduciary Trust . She too is gone. I know that she loved Gloria. They used to talk a lot together and laugh together. I know she just got married and my mother told me she was a sweet woman. I'm really sorry for your loss but know that Gloria was very special to lots of people.
Nancy Combs
April 5, 2002
I am making a block for the United In Memory Quilt in Gloria's honor.
It is my real pleasure to do so.
March 15, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS YOUNG WOMAN...GLORIA NIEVES...GOD BLESS HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 09/11/01..MAY SHE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS...MAY JESUS IN ALL HIS GLORY GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Teresa Jahn
December 17, 2001
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Natalia Sardinas
December 13, 2001
I met Gloria's husband on Sept. 13th at the Armory. I just wanted to tell his family that my thoughts and prayers are with them. I wish then peace and happiness in their lives.
Siempre pienso en uds.
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