Obituary of Maureen Avila

Attorney Maureen Avila passed away peacefully on the morning of July 23, 2016 after a long illness. She was born in Brooklyn, NY on December 26, 1969. In 1984, Maureen and her family relocated to Florida. She received her High School Diploma from Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High, her B.A. from the University of Tampa in 1991 and her J.D. from Widener University School of Law in 1995. She was preceded in death by her father, William Avila and her mother, Maura Avila. She is survived by her brother, William Avila; other close relatives; and an immense family of the heart. Her animals were her children and were loved and cared for with the deepest devotion. Maureen started practicing law in Miami, Florida and relocated to the Sarasota/Manatee area in 1998. She was one of the first female, bilingual attorneys to practice law in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. She compassionately and intelligently served others through her tireless legal work and her philanthropy with the American Cancer Society and numerous other organizations. Her efforts were well documented and she was highly respected by colleagues inside and outside the legal community. Maureen had a fearless spirit. She skydived, traveled, had friends all over the world, and never met a stranger. Maureen loved her family and friends deeply. Her innate compassion and respect for others regardless of their life situation made her a beacon for positivity everywhere she went. She had a witty sense of humor and a smile that lit up any room. Our dearest Maureen you are already deeply missed. Your mantra was MOE-More Opportunity Everywhere and you created these opportunities in every life you touched. You are Fantastic, Unique, Courageous, Keeping You Ever, Absolutely Heaven-bound. A Celebration of Life in Maureen's honor will be held on August 12, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. at the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion. Attendees are requested to wear red and pink. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Tidewell Hospice in Venice, Florida.