Carolina Cocina

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Mrs. Carolina Gonzalez Cocina, a beloved daughter, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and mother-in-law. Born Carola Gonzalez in Havana, Cuba, on December 19, 1948, to Jose Ramon Gonzalez Santin and Amelia Gonzalez Garcia, Carolina's journey was a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering faith, inspiring all who knew her.

Exiled to the United States in January 1966, Carola and her family settled in Miami. Upon arrival, they discovered her name was incorrectly spelled on her birth certificate as Carolina. She used both names interchangeably—Carola to her family and Carolina in her new country, where she quickly adapted and came to love her new life in the United States. She attended Miami Senior High, graduating in 1969. It was there she met the love of her life, Santiago Cocina Vallejo. After a two-year courtship, they were married on May 30, 1970, and for the next 54 years, she remained always in the arms of her husband Santiago, who continues to love her deeply.

In May 1973, Carolina and Santiago welcomed their daughter, Roxana Carolina Cocina Corradino, followed by their son, Omar Santiago Cocina, in November 1977. Carolina's love for her family was , unyielding. She embraced her role as a homemaker with joy and dedication, cherishing every moment of this important job. She was a devoted volunteer at Village Green Elementary School, actively involved in the PTA, and served in several leadership roles within the organization. Carolina was also a room mother for her children, enthusiastically supporting their education and school activities.

Carolina found solace and purpose in her faith in Jesus. She and her husband served the Lord in the worship ministry for many years. Carolina would sing praises to the Lord while Santiago played the piano. She was an active member of Bible Study Fellowship and Labor of Love at Southwest Community Church, where she crocheted blankets and hats for children through World Vision. She chronicled her life in journals spanning almost three decades, documenting prayers, recipes, and family genealogy. Inside these journals, she collaged flowers her grandson would bring her, affectionately calling them 'letters to Jesus,' showcasing her dedication to journaling and maintaining a close relationship with God. Carolina prayed at her prayer desk every morning before sunrise, spending time with her Father as the first thing she did each day. This demonstrated a life of devotion, faithfully praying for anyone who needed it. She ensured you were lifted in prayer if you asked her to pray for you.

Later in life, Carolina was affectionately known as Lavi by her grandson Matteo, a name quickly adopted by all. Above all, Carolina was a devoted and loving grandmother. She adored her grandson, Matteo Giuseppe Corradino, showering him with affection and love; And her beautiful granddaughter, Camila Maria Cocina, who inherited her laughter, smiles, and big brown eyes, reflecting her forever young and gorgeous grandmother. Her role as a grandmother brought warmth and love to all who knew her.

Carolina will be deeply missed by all who love her. Her friends and sisters in Christ relied on her as a dedicated minister of encouragement, constantly guiding them to trust only in Christ. Her straightforward, loving, and dedicated spirit touched many lives.

We love you, Mami. Your love, faith, and devotion will continue to inspire us.

Rest in peace, Carola (Lavi). Until we meet again on the day of the resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ will wake you from your deep sleep, along with your loving husband, all your children, grandchildren, and loved ones. And so we shall ever be with the Lord.