Carmen "Cuca" Semidei (Galarza)

WORCESTER – Carmen “Cuca” Semidei (Galarza), 72, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on December 5, 1952, in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, to the late Manuel H. Galarza and Carmen Torres. Carmen later moved to Worcester, Massachusetts, where she built a life full of love, resilience, and dedication to her family and community.

Carmen worked as a dietary aide at South High Community School for 15 years before retiring in 2009. She took pride in her work and made a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.

Her greatest joy in life was being a grandmother. Carmen cherished every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was a mother and grandmother figure to many beyond her own family. She was known for her warmth, kindness, delicious cooking, and the unconditional love she shared so freely. Her presence brought light and laughter to all who knew her.

Carmen is survived by her children: Veronica Semidei; Brunilda Clarkson (Semidei) and her spouse, Hampton Clarkson; Rosa Semidei-Molina and her spouse, Irving Molina; Roxanne Reyes and her spouse, Jose Reyes; Leslie Gonzalez; and Raymond Semidei and his spouse, Vicki Semidei. She also leaves behind her 11 beloved grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, many brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—including her dearest companions Assunta Vaccaro, Gail Burns, and Patty Berrios.

She is predeceased by her parents and other beloved family members who went before her.

Carmen will always be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her infectious joy, and the deep love she poured into those around her.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kelly Cremation and Funeral Care, 154 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA. A private burial will take place at the convenience of the family at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.

Flowers are welcome and may be brought to the services in Carmen’s honor.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Lutheran Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center for their compassionate care.