WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Carmen Anita (Medina) Fernandez, age 65 of Waterbury, shares the news of her peaceful passing on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital after a sixteen-year-long battle with cancer. She was the beloved wife of Robert Fernandez.

Carmen was born on September 20, 1960, in Waterbury, Connecticut, the daughter of the late Hector and Delia (Quinones) Medina. Carmen was a woman of remarkable character, known for her selflessness and unwavering kindness. Her passion for baking and love for plants were cornerstones of her home, symbolizing the warmth and care she extended to everyone. Her home was a sanctuary for all, where she welcomed anyone in need with open arms and a warm smile. Often referred to as a "martyr" by those who knew her, she found joy in caring for others, nurturing not just her family but all those fortunate enough to cross her path. Carmen had an innate talent for making everyone feel embraced and valued, and her non-judgmental spirit fostered an environment of acceptance and love.

Carmen will be dearly missed, but her legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Left to honor and cherish her memory and legacy, beside her beloved husband, Robert, are her daughters; Natalie Fernandez of Waterbury and Casee (Fernandez) Thomas and her husband Jacob of Waterbury; her brothers; Hector Medina and his wife Lori, and David Medina, all of Waterbury; her sisters; Madeline Medina of Waterbury, Nancy (Medina) Martell and her husband John of Waterbury, Marizol (Medina) Gore and her husband Michael of Wallingford, Delia (Medina) Rosario and her husband Eleuterio of Waterbury, Jeanette (Medina) Colon and her husband Josian of New Jersey, and Brenda Medina of Naugatuck; and her grandchildren Mackenzie, Mia, Jayce, and Jett. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family members and friends.

Funeral services for Mrs. Fernandez will be held privately at the convenience of her family. Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT, has been honored to care for Carmen and support her family during this difficult time. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you on the funeral home website. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family, please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com.