Susana Torralbas De Garcia

Susana Torralbas Garcia was born on January 27, 1937, to her devoted parents, Susana and Fermin Torralbas. She met Astor Garcia, her brother Mario's (Tito) best friend, and the two quickly fell deeply in love. They eventually married in Holguin, Cuba. Tito often joked that he married Astor’s cousin, Doris (Tita), as payback for Astor not heeding his warning to stay away from his sister. Susana affectionately called Astor “ojos verdes” (green eyes), and together, they embraced life as partners. When Castro declared that children were the property of the state, Susana realized the danger that her own children—Astor, Albert, and Ana—could be taken from her at any moment for indoctrination. The regime’s anti-religious stance further fueled her resolve to leave Cuba in pursuit of the American dream. Ever the strong-willed woman, Susana brushed aside Astor’s hopeful belief that things in Cuba would stabilize, telling him she would leave with the children—with or without him. Naturally, Astor followed. They eventually built a life in Miami, planting roots for their family.

Susana and Astor worked multiple jobs to provide for their family, creating a loving and supportive home. They raised their children to be as resilient and compassionate as they were. Each child earned a college degree and went on to build successful careers and families of their own. Susana remained deeply involved in her children’s, grandchildren, and great grandchildren’s lives, playing an active role in nurturing the next generation.

Susana and Astor were true partners, working hard and supporting each other and their children throughout their lives. As their children grew older, Susana devoted more of her time to deepening her faith in Jesus Christ and her love for the Virgin Mary, embracing the special relationship between them. She became a member of the Apostles of the Two Hearts and was always eager to share her faith, encouraging everyone she encountered to pray and turn their hearts toward the Lord. Even during her final years battling dementia, Susana continued to recite prayers, listen to Mass, and inspire others with her faith. Visiting her meant being surrounded by her unwavering devotion, as her prayers provided comfort during moments of anxiety, and her home was filled with religious images that reflected her profound belief.

Susy was deeply loved and cherished by those around her. She had a magnetic presence—spiritual, charming, and quick-witted, with a wonderful sense of humor. An exceptional cook, she was especially famous for her black beans served every Christmas Eve. People were naturally drawn to her, and she was blessed with many visitors—family and friends who never forgot her warmth and kindness. To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as Abi, and many others who experienced her motherly love called her Mami-Susy.

Susana leaves behind a legacy of love and care, survived by the countless people she touched—both family and friends. Her beloved grandchildren include Nick Garcia, Ali Garcia, Susana Becerra Lamont, Mary Becerra, A. Garrett Garcia, Manny Becerra, and Matt Garcia. She was also blessed with four great grandchildren, Theodore, Penelope, Elias, and Liv.