Marcella Vasquez's Obituary
Marcella Vasquez, born on September 22, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, to William George Crosby and Nunziatta Lombardi, was the fifth of six children. She attended school in Brooklyn, NY, where she spent her early years.
In 1954, Marcella married Harry Vasquez, a service member, in New York City. Together, they raised their family in the city.
Marcella dedicated over a decade of her career to the state of New York before relocating to Washington State in 1991. She worked for and retired from the Tacoma School District’s Transportation Division and also drove motor coaches for Greyhound Buses. Marcella was a compassionate foster parent to many children in Tacoma and played a significant role in advocating for Foster Parent Reform under Governor Christine Gregoire.
A devoted Christian and powerful woman of faith, Marcella was an active member of Into His Chambers church in Federal Way, WA, for many years.
Marcella cherished her friendships, including a special bond with Rosa Nabi of New York City, a dear friend of over 41 years. She was a strong, independent, and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Marcella enjoyed reading the Bible, knitting, crocheting, cooking—especially for the holidays—and traveling to visit family.
She leaves behind her daughter Nicole Medina and son-in-law Nathaniel C. Tomlin Sr.; grandchildren Sherman D. Allen, Nathaniel C. (Judy) Tomlin Jr., Carlo R. Tomlin, Steven I. Tomlin, and Niko Q. Tomlin; great-grandchildren Giovanni M. Vasquez, Genesis N. Tomlin, Zakeia Tomlin, Kazmonie E. Tomlin, Kay’lynn J. Tomlin, Yaretzi Machado-Toro, and Justice R. Nordman; nephew William (Lynn) Devita; nieces Cheryl L.(Mackenson) Payne-Joseph, and Renee Brimage; great-nephews Pasquale (Rosemarie) Devita, and Walter Lazare Jr.; great-nieces Shante Allison and Calene V. Lazare; and a host of other close family friends. Marcella was preceded in death by Harry Vasquez, Veronica Vasquez, Linda M. Vasquez, Ramon Gonzalez, Jr, and her older siblings.
Marcella’s legacy of love, faith, and service will be remembered by all who knew her.
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