For many, shopping at Winn Dixie on Spring Hill Dr. and Mariner will be less of a pleasure without Regina Reciniello’s helpful and positive presence.
The community gathered on Saturday to honor the life of Reciniello, a homeless woman who was fatally struck by a car while attempting to cross a highway in Spring Hill. There were friends, some of whom were also homeless, acquaintances as well as shoppers who spoke with her as they drove by where she sat.
The accident occurred on Tuesday, March 11, when a vehicle traveling west on County Line Road hit Reciniello as she tried to cross Mariner Boulevard. She succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Reciniello was a familiar presence outside the Mariner Village Center Winn-Dixie, located at the corner of Mariner Boulevard and Spring Hill Drive. In fact, she can even be spotted on Google Maps’ street view, sitting on the curb with her phone in hand.
Her friends called her Gina and she was known for striking up conversations with passersby, always eager to ask about their day and what was new in their lives. She often referred to those she met as “son” or “daughter,” embracing everyone with warmth. If she had only $5 and someone needed it, she wouldn’t hesitate to give it to them.
Gabriella Almond recalled how she would skip school and Gina would tell her to go back to school whenever she caught her skipping. Zakarie McWilliams said that she supported him when he was homeless for several years.
Reciniello had been homeless for the past six years. She was married twice—her second husband passed away, while her first husband resides in Puerto Rico.
Bob Peters drove her every day from near his house to the Mariner Village shopping center. They spent her last few days together and enjoyed prime rib and spaghetti and meatballs.
On March 15, several of Reciniello’s friends organized a memorial to celebrate her life. At 3 p.m., acquaintances and friends gathered in the parking lot of the Mariner Village Center Winn-Dixie to honor her memory. Tears were shed, stories were shared and heartfelt memories were exchanged.
A picture of Reciniello was placed on the tree where she always sat. Flowers, pinwheels and crosses were laid at its base. Friends gave speeches about her generosity and kindness.
In the face of tragedy, the community came together, transforming their grief into a moment of healing and remembrance.
[Photo by Hanna Maglio]
