Nilda Morales (Rivera), 62, of Rochester, NY.

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce our beloved mother has entered eternal rest on July 28, 2025.

Nilda was predeceased by her cherished husband, Pedro A. Morales, and by her nurturing mother, Nilda Bas. She is survived by her devoted children, Ashley (Chris) Garcia, Erika (Michael) Pompili, Eric (Alexandra) Morales; and her bonus sons, Pedro Morales and Daniel Morales. She was a loving and proud grandmother to Aniya, Christopher and Michael Garcia, and was joyfully awaiting the arrival of her twin grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings, Angel (Carmen) Rivera, Arleen (Graham) Hyland, Jeffrey (Sandra) Rivera, and Nahir Rivera; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and close friends.

A graduate of Monroe Community College, Nilda built a successful 30+ year career at Rochester Gas & Electric, where she was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, and signature sass. Her achievements were many, but her greatest legacy is the family she loved, protected, and poured her heart into. There was nothing more important to Nilda than her children and grandchildren. She was their fiercest protector and their loudest cheerleader. She was there for every game and every recital, celebrated every birthday, and proudly marked every milestone. Her heart swelled with pride at every accomplishment, no matter how big or small. Her love for them truly was limitless and unconditional.

She answered to many names over the years; Nildin, Nilly, Nins, Nadine, Nee, Maria, and a few more we’ll leave out for everyone’s sake, and each one held its own story, depending on who was calling. But no matter what name you used, you always got the same fiery, loving, unforgettable woman. Nilda was a force, strong-willed, independent, and full of fire. She found joy in the sparkle of jewelry, especially her beloved “champagne diamonds” and her shimmering crystals. She even had her own signature dance move, “the Nilda,” that made its way into many celebrations. Anyone who knows her knows Salsa music was her favorite and it reflects the vibrant rhythm and soul with which she lived her life.

For more than seven years, Nilda battled an aggressive cancer, defying every difficult prognosis with a will that was nothing short of extraordinary. Her strength was fueled not just by resilience but by an unwavering determination to be present for the family she cherished above all else. She endured treatment after treatment, sometimes setback after setback, always pushing forward for one more holiday, one more birthday, one more moment. Her strength, courage, and determination were a testament to the woman she was and will always be remembered as: powerful, proud, and deeply devoted to her family.

No matter how long a visit lasted with family or friends, when it was time to say goodbye, Nilda would always say with a smile, “But you just got here!” And true to her spirit, she would remind us, “It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later.” As we gather to honor her life, may we carry those words in our hearts, knowing this farewell is only temporary.

Nilda’s life story will be shared during visitation on Monday, August 4th from 4-7PM at Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home, 1411 Vintage Lane. Her funeral service will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 5th at 10AM at Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home, followed by entombment at Holy Sepulchre, Christ Our Light Mausoleum.