Aruba was shocked and saddened on Wednesday afternoon by the sudden passing of well-known photographer Gina Burleson-Werleman, who became ill at her home and passed away unexpectedly.
Initial information indicates that she suffered a cardiac arrest and died instantly. The news quickly spread, leaving former colleagues, family members, and friends in deep mourning.
Her full name was Darlise Jeanine Werleman, born in Aruba on November 11, 1966, making her 59 years old. However, she was known to everyone simply as Gina.
From a young age, Gina was active in sports and competed in volleyball, where she met her future husband, the late Robby Burleson, who served as a referee. Their friendship grew into a marriage that many remember fondly.
In addition to working in her father’s business, Gina developed a strong passion for photography. What began as helping her husband during his travels evolved into a professional and deeply personal calling. She became widely respected for her warm, friendly way of interacting with people — even when she had an occasional bad day, it never lasted long.
Gina had a special love for travel, social events, cultural celebrations, parties, and wedding photography. Every Friday, she could often be found at City Hall, checking which couples were scheduled to be married so she could capture their special moments for publication in DIARIO.
Despite recently experiencing some vision and blood sugar issues, there were no serious health concerns that suggested such a sudden loss.
For many years, Gina became known as one of the familiar “faces of DIARIO,” frequently seen out in the community gathering stories and photographs. Her absence will be deeply felt across the island.
DIARIO, together with the Mansur family, extends its deepest condolences to Gina’s son Miguelito, as well as to her family and loved ones in Aruba, Mexico, Bonaire, and beyond.
Her legacy lives on through the countless moments she captured — moments that helped tell Aruba’s story.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/fayecimento-inespera-di-conocido-fotografo-gina-burleson-werleman
