Amelia Esquinaldo

August 2, 1925 - August 10, 2025

Amelia Fernandez Esquinaldo, affectionately known to all as "Abuela," passed away peacefully in her beloved hometown of Key West, Florida, shortly after celebrating her 100th birthday. A proud third-generation Conch, Amelia was born on August 2, 1925, and remained deeply rooted in the island's culture and spirit throughout her life. Amelia was one of seven siblings- one sister and five brothers: Tina, Henry, Onorio, Mario, Pete and Joseph Fernandez. She shared a deep bond with her family.

In 1941, she married the love of her life, Milton "Mingo" Esquinaldo. Their marriage was a shining example of lifelong love and devotion, lasting 73 beautiful years until Mingo's passing in 2014.

Together, they raised two sons, Milton (Ann) and David (Sondra), and were blessed with six grandchildren: Milton Esquinaldo III, Patricia Esquinaldo Garcia (JP), David Justin Esquinaldo, Alex Esquinaldo (Tashia), Harrison Esquinaldo (Alicia), and Ariel Esquinaldo. Her legacy continues through her 12 great-grandchildren- DJ Laguna (Stephanie), Desirae Caldwell (Michael), Alston Garcia, Jesse Garcia, Jameson Esquinaldo, Amelia Willis, Vaughn Willis, Harrison Axel Esquinaldo, Harlow Esquinaldo, Martello Esquinaldo, Vera Esquinaldo, Theo Esquinaldo, and 4 great-great-grandchildren: Cameron & Calvin Caldwell, Mila & Alden Laguna, and several nieces and nephews. All of whom were touched by her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Amelia was a devoted homemaker, a pillar of her family, and a nurturing presence in the lives of many. She opened her home and heart to countless children over the years, babysitting and caring for generations as if they were her own. To the community, she was more than a caregiver she was truly everyone's Abuela.

Her favorite color was green, reflecting her vibrant spirit and deep love of gardening. Even at 100, Amelia lived life to the fullest enjoying weekly card games, lunches with her "Lunch Bunch," and cherished time with the Sorority Sisters of Preceptor Gamma. She carried herself with grace, humor, and a zest for life that inspired all who knew her.

In recognition of her centennial milestone and lifelong contributions to the community, Key West Mayor Danise Henriquez proclaimed August 2, 2025, as Amelia Fernandez Esquinaldo Day a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much to so many.

A funeral Mass celebrating her life will be held at The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea on August 23 at 3:00 PM

Following her wishes, Amelia will be cremated and laid to rest alongside her beloved Mingo.

Amelia's legacy of love, laughter, and community will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was the soul of her family and a treasure to Key West.

Rest in peace, Abuela. Your garden here is blooming because of the seeds of love you planted.