Thursday, November 5, 2026 3:24 pm

Emelina Squires Longoria was born on September 12, 1938, in Pinar del Río, Cuba, to Jesús Candelaria Reyes and Nieves Lazo Rodriges. She grew up in Pinar del Río, where her story began and where her roots remained. She passed away in October 26th, 2026 in Shelby, North Carolina.


Emelina found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved cooking, tending to her garden, and never missed an episode of The Young and the Restless. A woman of strong opinions and an even stronger will, Emelina believed in doing things her own way. Behind her stubborn nature was a woman who cared deeply for her family and always wanted the very best for those she loved.


Known to her close family affectionately as Mama, Emelina helped raise and guide the loved ones that followed her footsteps. She shared her love in her own unique way, leaving behind lessons, memories, and a strength of character that her family will carry with them always.


Emelina is survived by her siblings and their families: María Matheson of Shelby, Pedro Jesús Candelaria and Luis Alberto Candelaria, both of Pinar del Río, Cuba; and her beloved grandchildren, Jeremy Murray of Beeville and Josie Murray of Los Angeles, Ashton, Josh, and Matthew Harrington of Tennessee.


She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesús Candelaria Reyes and Nieves Lazo Rodriges; her former husband, Richard Squires, the father of her three children; and her beloved husband, Luis "Papa" Longoria, her children, Diana Garcia of Los Angeles, Nancy Harrington of Chattanooga, and David Squires of Milton; her sister, Dora Cigelske of Rockledge; and her brothers, Israel Candelaria, Eduardo Candelaria, and Rolando Candelaria.


Mama will be remembered for her strength, her determination, personality, and the love she held for her family. Though her absence will be deeply felt, the memories she created and the lessons she passed down will remain with those who love her.

A Graveside Service will be held Friday, October 30, 2026 at 11:00 am at Cleveland Memorial Park with Rev. Nathan Mathison officiating.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.