Isabel G. Nina

Isabel G. Nina entered eternal rest, surrounded by her devoted family, on August 8, 2026, at the age of 75. She was born on June 15, 1951, in San Tulce, Puerto Rico, where she spent her early years in the warmth of a close‑knit community. In 1974, Isabel relocated to New Orleans to begin a new life, one marked by resilience, dedication, and hope for the future. In 1993, she married the love of her life, Rafael Nina.

A talented baker, Isabel worked as a line supervisor at McKenzie’s Bakery for 24 years before retiring and later reentering the workforce as an insulation technician at Avondale Shipyard for four years. Her passion for baking extended well beyond her career. She delighted in creating special birthday cakes for her grandchildren, each one crafted with love and pride. She was also known for her cherished Puerto Rican dishes; arroz con gandules, pernil asado, empanadas, tres leches cake, and flan which were always party favorites and brought joy to every gathering.

Isabel was an extraordinary woman and cornerstone of her family. She was not only a mother to her own children but shared her nurturing spirit with their friends, her siblings, and their children. Isabel was beloved for her deep care and compassion, often opening her home to those who needed shelter during difficult times. Her faith guided her generosity, and she lived with a quiet confidence in God’s abiding care. She was cherished by many, but especially by her grandchildren, who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, José M. Gomez and Rita Santiago; her loving husband of nearly 30 years, Rafael Nina; and her siblings Ruben Rivera, José M. Gomez Jr., Ricardo Pellot, Elba Quiles, and Angel Luis Quiles. We take comfort in knowing that they are reunited in God’s eternal embrace.

Isabel leaves behind a family who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts: her children Moira Ortiz (Damein), Ivette Ortiz, Felipe Ortiz (Tiffany), José Ortiz, Angelicia Salinas, Julio Salinas (Lexi), Juan Francisco Nina (Johany), Zahira Nina (Carlos), Ariel Nina, and Aronis Nina; her grandchildren Marquette, Caela, Joseph, Trey (Gabby), Felicity, Macie, Belicia, Maegan, Mari, Jhonaton, Julianna, Felipe, Kourtney, Gabriel, Elijah, Jedreck, Jarvis, Jaret, Crisory, Helen, Leslie, Juanito, Jariel, Ashley, Amara, Jayren, Jerico, Nicholas, and Isla; as well as 14 great‑grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters Amarylis Quiles (Hector) and Sheila Quiles‑Placido (Tony), along with a host of loving nieces and nephews and her ex-husband José Ortiz.

As her family reflects on her life, they find peace in the promise of Scripture: “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Memorial Service in the Chapel of Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expy, Harvey, LA on Monday, August 24, 2026 at 10 AM. Interment Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Gretna, LA. Visitation will be held from 8 AM until service time.