It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother, who left this world on September 30, 2023. Born in Havana, Cuba on September 9, 1940, she was a beacon of love, strength, and kindness throughout her life. After a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease, she peacefully departed her earthly existence at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Our mother served our school district for 30 years. She worked at Harris School and Glynn Archer Elementary as an ESOL teacher, where she helped many children to read and learn the English language. She truly enjoyed her job and each of her students.

Our mother was a remarkable woman, known for her boundless love, unwavering care, and selflessness. Her life was a testament to her dedication to others, always putting their needs before her own. She had an incredible gift for making everyone around her laugh, turning even the most mundane moments into cherished memories filled with joy.

Her role as a mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother was nothing short of extraordinary. She embraced these roles with a heart full of love and an endless willingness to be there for her family. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she was always ready to embark on any adventure they dreamed up.

Our mother was preceded in death by her father, Bernabe Garcia; her mother, Luisa Garcia; her nephew, George Romero, and her brother-in-law, Jorge Romero.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength that will be cherished by her surviving daughters, Elsa (Kevin) Degraffenreid and Becky (Martin) Cobo; her grandchildren, Kevin (Kelcee) Degraffenreid Jr., Alexia (Manny) Degraffenreid, Erika (Norman) Pena, Daniela (Tommy) Pena; her great-grandchildren, Axel and Arya Degraffenreid; sister, Gladys Romero, and niece Gladys Bethel.

A Mass to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, October 7th, 2023, at 11 a.m. at The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea, located at 1010 Windsor Lane, Key West, Florida. We invite all who knew and loved her to join us in honoring her memory and sharing stories of the beautiful life she lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider making a donation to an Alzheimer's research or support organization in her name, as she would have wished to contribute to finding a cure for the disease that touched her life so deeply.

Our dear mother's love and laughter will forever echo in our hearts, and her memory will continue to inspire us to be as loving, caring, and selfless as she was throughout her remarkable life. May she rest in eternal peace.

Professional services entrusted to Key West Mortuary 328 Truman Avenue Key West, FL