MERCEDES - PIETROBONO

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mercedes Pietrobono (“Mercy”), who passed away on April 26, 2026, at her home in Yucaipa, California. She was 76 years old.

Mercy was born in Havana, Cuba, and immigrated to the United States at an early age. She was raised in Key West, Florida, where she graduated from Key West High School in 1967. Although she spent her final years in California, she spent much of her life in Michigan raising her four children with her husband, Andy Pietrobono. No matter where life took her, her heart always remained in Florida.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Andy Pietrobono, and her mother, Hilda Courville (Mike Sosa), whom she adored. She is survived by her four children, Andy, Lenny, Joe (Janelle), and Melanie (Jason); her beloved brother, Angel Mir; many cousins, including Gloria Thornton (Rick), Mirian Salgado, Ricky Benitoa (Kristen), and Hildalee Brown; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members with whom she shared a special bond. She was lovingly known as “Mimi” to her ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Mercy was a devoted mother who adored her children and was deeply proud of each of them. No matter how busy life became, she always made time to be there—whether it was at sporting events, dance recitals, or the everyday moments that mattered most. Her presence was constant, her support unwavering, and her love something her children could always count on.

She was also a woman of many hidden talents, well known to those closest to her. While she was incredibly artistic, her true gift was her comedic wit—she had a remarkable ability to make people laugh and thrived in any social setting. She had a gentle spirit as well, often spending hours with anyone who needed a listening ear.

Above all, Mercy was a survivor. No matter what life placed in her path, she found a way through it. Even in the face of challenges that seemed impossible, she persevered with strength and determination, always finding a way to carry on and make things happen.

We will miss her dearly and take comfort in knowing that she is with God, free from pain, and reunited with loved ones who passed before her.

For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing. – 2 Timothy 4:6-8

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Mercy by reaching out to someone who may need it—take the time to be a listening ear, just as she so often was for others.