Elvira Pena

Born on December 29, 1937 in Mendoza, Argentina, she was the daughter of the late Manuel Antonio Parra and the late Maria Carmen Manzano. She was happily married to Manuel Pena until his death in 1991.

She immigrated to America in 1969 with little more than a suitcase and a dream. She came in search of a better life – which she found. Her journey through life has made her tougher than nails. She’s known hardship and struggle, but she’s never once complained. She led by example and wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. Reminiscing through old letters and photos of how she came to America and the obstacles that she overcame makes her family proud of the example that she has set and of her life’s journey.

She loved reading books and was a lifelong student, furthering her own education at every opportunity. She passionately and unapologetically encouraged others to do the same, especially her children and grandchildren. Her house was full of books and magazines at every turn, and it is often joked about within the family that her favorite place in the world to visit was Barnes & Noble bookstore.

She was a devout Roman Catholic all her life and very rarely if ever missed Mass until her health started to decline. She would recite her rosary and end most conversations with her children, “Que Dios te bendiga.” She truly showed love and forgiveness in every step she took.

Her greatest strengths in life were her honor, integrity, and work ethic. These deeply embedded character traits never failed her – ever.

Elvira is survived by her children: Brian Pena (Allison) of Lexington, Robert Pena (Glinda) of Columbia, and Mercy Pena (Peter) of New York, as well as grandchildren: Laney, Gabby, and Israel – all of which she referred to as “Mi Amor”.

A visitation will be held on January 19, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Dunbar Funeral Home - Dutch Fork Chapel, located at 7600 Woodrow St, Irmo, South Carolina, 29063. The funeral service will follow at the same location, beginning at 11:00 am. Burial will take place at Bush River Memorial Gardens, 5400 Bush River Road, Columbia, South Carolina, 29212, following the funeral service on January 19, 2026.