Elba Angelica Solano Diaz

Elba was preceded in death by her parents, Adolfo Solano Mendoza and Hortencia Diaz Calero; son, Rafael R. Romero, Jr.; son-in-law, Enrique J. Obando; sisters, Guadalupe Solano Tablada and Elsa Solano Gray; and her brother, Ruben Solano Diaz.

Elba is survived by her loving daughers, Elba Romero Obando and Suyapa H. Romero; son, Gabriel R. Romero, Sr. (Sara Discua); sisters, Erlinda Solano Canizales and Melida Solano Diaz; grandchildren, Kimberly Carr (Carlos), Amanda Obando Arias (Saul Arias), Andrea Obando Beasley (Coleman Beasley), Gabriel Romero, Jr. (Mayra), and Amaris Genovese (Stan); great-grandchildren, Jaden C. Cheatham, Lev A. Arias, Luna I. Arias, Michael W. Carr, Trent R. Carr, Angelina M. Carr, Richard W. Leonard, Gabriela L. Herrera, Alexis C. Genovese, Alissa Romero, Viviana Romero, Evalee V. Romero, and Nathalia I. Romero; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Elba’s life was dedicated to caring for her family.

She was born on February 17, 1927 in El Progreso, Yoro, Honduras, where she was raised along with her siblings. As a young adult and mother, she worked as a schoolteacher and even learned to drive a school bus at a time where women drivers were not the norm. In 1972, she moved to the United States to live with and care for her children. As an immigrant she continued to work hard. Her granddaughters recount memories of her teaching herself English and studying with her for her citizenship test, a testament to her determination.

She never stopped teaching, even years after she left the classroom. She always had a lesson or advice to pass on, and her delivery was known to be quite to the point. Those who knew her well will never forget her fiery spirit or her sense of humor. She was strong-willed and fiercely independent until her final moment. In a family of mostly women, she led by example - passing on wisdom to ensure every daughter and granddaughter would also be independent and self-reliant.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at Divine Mercy Parish, 4337 Sal Lentini Parkway in Kenner, Louisiana, on Saturday, February 4, 2023 beginning at 9:30AM. The Funeral Mass will immediately follow at 10:00AM with Rev. Robert Cooper officiating. Her remains will be taken to her beloved San Pedro Sula in Honduras, C.A., where she will rest with her son.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Elba’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, Louisiana Chapter, www.alz.org.

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com