Nadezda (Shagleeva) Romanishina

When I think about my mom, two words come to mind first: kindness and selflessness. She was that loving and caring person who always put herself last. Her life goal was to keep her beloved ones and everyone else around her happy. Whether it was helping a relative who could not care for himself or feeding a homeless cat, Nadezda’s priority was always to spread love and give love to anyone in need. Anyone who knows Mom can confirm that no one would ever leave her home hungry and, if the occasion allowed, sober.

Nadezda was born in a small town in the Soviet Union during a time of great challenges and change. Growing up in the communist era of Russia, she learned the value of resilience and hard work. Despite the hardships she faced, she always maintained an unwavering spirit and an open heart. Her strength and compassion became the foundation of her character, shaping her into the remarkable woman we all knew and loved.

She had a special love for animals, finding joy in their companionship and dedicating herself to their care. Whether it was adopting stray cats or ensuring a  neighborhood dog had enough to eat, her compassion extended to all living creatures. Animals, much like people, were drawn to her gentle and nurturing spirit.

Nadezda also loved traveling, finding beauty and inspiration in the world around her. She took multiple trips with her daughters where she embraced different cultures and experiences with open arms. Some of her happiest moments were spent fishing alongside her husband, Vladimir, sharing quiet, peaceful times by the water.

She had a deep appreciation for art, especially impressionism, and often found solace and joy in the works of great artists. Her love of beauty extended to her own life; she was passionate about fashion and always took pride in looking elegant. I never remember seeing Mom without her makeup and a perfect manicure. She had an innate sense of style that reflected her vibrant personality.

Her journey through life was filled with acts of generosity and care. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, offering them not just a helping hand but also a listening ear and a warm smile. She believed in the power of small, kind gestures to make a big difference in the world. When Mom and Dad built a house, she grew the most beautiful rose garden. “Roses are so picky, but I love them,” said Mom, and her garden always bloomed.

I clearly remember me and Mom feeding homeless kittens at night when I was 5 years old. There were no animal shelters in Soviet Russia. In summer, we fed kittens outside; in the rough winter, we took them into our tiny studio apartment we shared between me, Mom, Dad, and my sister. The kittens ended up being adopted into loving homes. It probably taught me the best lesson in life: never turn away from any living creature who needs love and care.

In her later years, Nadezda faced the challenges of Parkinson's disease with the same courage and grace that defined her life. Despite her struggles, she continued to fill our lives with love and inspiration. When her disease became terminal, she had to be transferred to a ventilated unit in a nursing home. My father, Vladimir, visited her every single day. Even though Mom could no longer speak, they communicated through the music they loved as a young couple and pictures of children, grandkids, and family. Suffering through incredible pain, Mom always found strength to smile and cheer us.

Moments we were able to spend together with my husband Jai and my daughter Mira became precious memories that we will cherish forever. We were her family and her comfort, just as she was our guiding light.

Mom’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the love she shared so freely. Her kindness and selflessness remain a beacon for us all. She taught us to see the good in everyone and to always lead with our hearts.

Nadezda is survived by her mother Maria, daughters Sveta and Masha, and grandchildren Liza, Vova, and Mira.

Rest in peace, Mom. You will always be in our hearts.