Eufemia Estela Martinez Mercado

In Loving Memory of Estela “Grandmama” Mercado

Fuschia Pink Soul, Aqua Blue Spirit

Estela Mercado — lovingly known as Grandmama, Momma Dukes, and simply Estela to those lucky enough to know her — passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of strength, adventure, faith, and love that will be carried forward by all who had the blessing to be part of her story.

Born in the vibrant city of Paraná, Argentina, Estela moved to the United States at a young age, planting roots in Chicago where she would build a life full of purpose. It was there she met the love of her life, Rafael Mercado, and together they built a beautiful life — raising their beloved daughter Estella and creating memories that would span generations.

Estela worked for over a decade as an EEG Technician at Mount Sinai Hospital, but she wore many hats throughout her life — devoted wife, wise mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, adventurous traveler, faithful believer, and sharp-minded businesswoman who always had a copy of Money magazine tucked nearby. She became a widow in 1983 but never stopped walking forward with grace and determination.

In 1985, she and her daughter moved to Orlando to fulfill Rafael’s dream. By 1990, Estela proudly became a U.S. citizen — not just for herself, but for the freedom to come and go with peace of mind, something she cherished deeply.

She was passionate about life’s simple pleasures: fishing and crabbing at Cape Canaveral, filling her garden with life, creating with her hands through ceramics, knitting and sewing, and filling every trip — from Biloxi to Vegas to Europe — with laughter and gratitude. Her dream of standing beneath the Eiffel Tower and gliding through Venice on a gondola came true, a testament to her fearless and hopeful spirit.

If you ever spotted a change jar nearly overflowing at her house, you knew it was time — she'd be off to the Hard Rock Casino, saving every penny until it hit the rim and not spending a cent more. That was Estela: fun-loving, wise with money, but always up for a little thrill.

Estela’s faith in God grounded her, carried her, and gave her peace. She believed deeply and loved generously. She gave freely of her time — volunteering, comforting, and just being a good friend. You could always count on her for a warm word, a soft smile, or a sharp piece of advice (especially when it came to saving money).

She is survived by her loving daughter, Estella Mercado; her cherished granddaughters, Mariani and Luzymar Resto; her adored great-granddaughters, Julissa and Jomarii Atencio; and her dear nephews Pablo, Juan Carlos, and Gaston Martinez. She is now reunited with her husband Rafael and her beloved parents, whose memory she carried with her always.

Estela lived in bold color with her favorites, fuchsia pink and aqua blue, were more than shades. They were expressions of her vibrant, kind, and fierce personality. Her legacy will live on in stories shared at family tables, the scent of garden soil, the quiet clink of coins in a jar, and the sparkle in her descendants’ eyes when they chase their dreams — just like she did.

Estela “Grandmama” Mercado: You were one of a kind. We’ll miss you dearly and celebrate you always.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart…” – Proverbs 3:5