Elba Pera

Elba Pera passed away peacefully at the age of 85 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Puentedeva, Spain in 1935, but raised in Santiago de Cuba. She was preceded in death by her parents Felix and Nidia Vazquez and her 2 daughters Joanna Gittleman and Ada Martinez.

As a young woman, she fought against Castro's regime and was wanted by the Cuban government with a 30 year prison sentence for working against the revolution-"communism". She spent years in hiding (incognito) and was known as Mabel to many. While in hiding, she married with no ring, no formal wedding, no pictures, no wedding dress, just a brief Catholic ceremony. This marriage lasted "until death due us part"-60 years. She exiled to Spain by herself until she could be reunited with her husband. They later came to the United States residing in Providence, Rhode Island, Arcadia, Florida, and her final home in Miami, Florida. She loved this wonderful country that gave her the opportunity to establish freedom again.

She leaves behind her husband, Dr. Sergio Pera, five daughters: Angelina (Jorge) Larrañaga, Elba (Tom) Lipe, Frances Pera, Jenny (Mike) Manning, and Judy (Darren) Winfrey and one brother Guillermo Vazquez. Sixteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren had the privilege of calling her "Abi". Like she used to say "two people led to this production".

She dreamed of a free Cuba, loved God and her passion was her family. She was a homemaker most of her life, with the exception of when she worked for El Encanto in Cuba and Avon & Orlane in Spain. She also enjoyed making piñatas for parties and various crafts for weddings. Nothing made her happier than when her family gathered together making memories. She was the glue that kept us bonded.

Viewing is Friday, July 3rd from 5:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M. at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn/Dignity Memorial @ 11655 SW 117th Avenue Miami, FL 33186. Burial Service @ 11:30 A.M. on Saturday, July 4th. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to The Sunshine House Regional Children's Advocacy Center at 328 W Main Street Swainsboro, GA 30401.

Please note, due to COV-19 masks are required at all times and other restrictions may apply.