Gladys Andrade

Gladys Andrade, 74, of Bridgeport, beloved wife of the late Fabian Andrade, passed away unexpectedly on January 20, 2023. Born in 1948 in Quito, Ecuador, she was the daughter of the late Victorino and Elena Zaldumbide. 

She is the treasured mother of Erika Andrade Bucci, Engelbert Fabian Andrade, and Jennifer Andrade Williams and mother-in-law to Dawn Lazurek Andrade and James Williams. Her legacy continues as adored Abuelita to Thomas Bucci, Elizabeth Bucci, Abigail Andrade, Engelbert Fabian Andrade Jr., Isabella Gladys Andrade, Jeremy Williams and Jordan Williams.

She is also survived by siblings, Fanny Chavez, Rosa Erazo, Rommel Zaldumbide, Enith Ruiz, Anita Ruiz, and their families.

Gladys attended school in Quito, Ecuador where she married her beloved Favi then came to the United States and settled in Bridgeport, Connecticut in the Hollow. Together, they opened Jennifer Jewelry repair then expanded when they purchased A. Lewis & Company, and later Tifon Jewelers.

She became a CNA and served the surrounding communities throughout Waterbury. As the economy changed, she continued in the jewelry business managing various stores until she retired to care for her grandchildren. She was happiest when surrounded by them. Whether she was creating art projects, going to the library, making empanadas, cooking, crocheting, or shopping with them, she was always funny, patient, and loving. She embraced her role as Abuelita heart and soul, always ready to protect and love. A true matriarch, she inspired, loved, and impacted the lives of not only those she loved, but everyone she met. 

She and Abuelito loved playing cards, vacationing, dressing up for Halloween, going to the casinos, and celebrating family milestones with friends Frank and Rosa, Gallo and Blanca, Pilar, Gloria, and so many other childhood friends and family. She recently revisited Ecuador with her sister in law, Argentina, and spent time with her siblings there. 

Her vivacious, warm and loving personality was taken too soon. We try to take comfort in picturing her dancing and laughing with Abuelito. She will be in our hearts forever. 

Family and friends are invited to gather on January 28 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at the Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460. 

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Gladys Andrade, please visit our Tree Store.