Obituary of Aurora Moguel

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and wife, Aurora “Orie” Moguel on July 4th, 2021 at the seasoned age of 80 years old in Tampa, FL. She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Florentino “Tino” Moguel who tirelessly cared for her throughout their lifetime together. She is preceded to Heaven by her children Edward Moguel, Andrew Moguel, Richard Moguel, Patricia Moguel and her brother Tony Castillo, sister Yolanda Castillo and son-in-law, Manuel Espat. She is survived by her daughter, Margaret “Mags” Espat of Tampa, FL, Anthony “Tony” Moguel of Temple Terrace, FL, Robert Moguel, Michael Moguel and Francis Moguel of Belize City, Belize, 18 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews and great grand nieces and nephews, her sister Consuelo Hernandez of New York, NY and brothers George Castillo, Ruben Castillo, Luis Castillo and Carlos Castillo. 

Aurora was a God fearing woman and exuded a silent strength in her demeanor. She would often be found deep in thought and would often tell us to “leave it in God’s hands” when she could see worry or angst in our eyes.  Her soft eyes, heart and hands always soothed our troubles and her sweet laugh filled our hearts with joy. She was a woman of few words but had an immense sense of love and compassion for her family and friends. She enjoyed reading thriller mystery books and the Bible, watching action movies, crime shows and westerns, especially those with “Cowboy Walker”. She jokingly called her walker at home “Mr. Walkah” after Chuck Norris. When she got to the point that she couldn’t see the words to  read, Tino would sit affectionately by her side and read them to her to enjoy the stories or verses. 

Aurora was affectionately known as Gran or Gramma to her cherished and loved grand babies, great grands and great grand kitties. She had a hand in raising each child, leaving and imprinting her love and affection on each of their hearts. Her love and compassion stemmed further than that, often showing her love and care by cooking and providing meals in Belize with Tino for those who were in need, even though they didn’t have much themselves. Grampa “Tino” reveled that Gran never complained and would just do what was needed to be done to survive and provide. She often would make black and white cakes for the Christmas season back in Belize and made sure that everyone that came to eat, left with a full belly. 

She and Tino moved to Tampa, FL in 2015 to live with their daughter and son-in-law, Mags and Manuel. The last 6 years in the states was spent nurtured and loved by her surrounding family that helped enrich her life. Her time was spent with her son, daughter-in-law, daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, great grand babies and kitties here in the states at family dinners, going on “adventures” with Tino, discovering the “nice rice” at Yummy House, her love for banana pudding and marveling at all the animals and the circus at the Florida state fair every year.

We treasured the time we had with Aurora and are deeply saddened by her passing. We will forever treasure the memory of her sweet laugh, her soft hugs and her sweet “I love you too baby”. 

The family sends their utmost appreciation and affection for those who have reached out and expressed their condolences and prayers. While our hearts are sad of her departure, we are at peace knowing she is finally resting comfortably in the arms of Jesus. 

A funeral service will be held Friday, July 9th, 2021 at Florida Mortuary Funeral Home with a viewing from 2pm-3pm and the service from 3pm-4pm with Deacon Greg Lambert of St. Lawrence Catholic Church. A link will be provided to attend the service virtually via Facebook Live.