Dr. Maria de Lourdes “Lou” Nunes

After a courageous three-year battle against ovarian cancer, Dr. Maria de Lourdes “Lou” Nunes, 73, of Tampa, Florida, peacefully passed away on May 20, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving children. Lou was born on May 29, 1950, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Her life was distinguished by personal and professional accomplishments, driven by her values of love, family, independence, a dedication to education, and helping others. Lou was known best for her smile, high energy, and positive disposition.

Lou’s first and favorite profession was as an educator; first in elementary education and later as an English as a Second Language instructor for adults. In August 1985, she immigrated to the United States as a single mother with three young children to provide her children with opportunities toward the American dream. In 1986, Lou earned her Master’s Degree in Education at Bowling Green State University in Ohio. In 1987, Lou moved to Baton Rouge where she completed her Doctorate in Curriculum Theory and Development at Louisiana State University, awarded in 1992.

Following her graduation, she dedicated herself to the international education field, specializing in credential evaluation. In 2005, Lou started her own firm, Academic Evaluation Services, Inc. in Tampa, Florida, which helps those with international degrees pursue their dreams in the United States.

Lou loved to travel and had a profound respect for different cultures. She spoke fluent Portuguese and English, advanced Spanish, and basic French. She visited 23 countries in her lifetime. She loved to collect keychains, coins, stamps, and unique items from each trip. Lou always returned from each trip with gifts for family, friends, and employees; she took such joy in giving to others.

Lou is survived by her three children, Sergio Waldeck, Cristiane Keetch, and Michelle Renne Rodriguez, as well as her four grandchildren, Andre Waldeck, Christina Waldeck, Joaquim Keetch, and Luna Rodriguez. She is also survived by her two sisters, Marilda Nunes and Marilia Aloy, and her two brothers, Fenelon Nunes and Fernando Nunes.

Per her wishes, Lou will be cremated. Her ashes will be blessed during a private family “Celebration of Life” memorial ceremony to be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 1pm to 4pm, at The Spiral Staircase, 425 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33629.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for Dr. Lou Nunes may be made to the USF International Student Support Fund which supports students to stay in school during times of crisis. https://giving.usf.edu/online/gift/g/uwe6/ All three of Lou’s children have degrees from the University of South Florida.