Celia was a survivor of the Spanish Civil war. Married in 1937 at 19 years of age, she was widowed by her resistance fighter husband within 4 years. Her mother died at the age of 52, before her father and brother were imprisoned by Franco. Her father died in prison. She was mother to her 5 siblings, ages 7-14, when her father and brother went to prison. In spite of this tragedy, Celia was a lively, positive personality, who loved all things Spanish. She met her second husband late in life. She married Francisco Sanchez at the age of 66 in 1984 in Houston, Texas. Francisco died in 1997 leaving Celia to forge a new life with new friends.
Celia was an inspiration on how to live a full life. Perhaps good genes and her determination to seek out a meaningful social life was the secret. She was cooking paella for her numerous friends until she was well into her 90s. She continued to share the secrets of her paella recipe to all. She did not hesitate to invite 25-35 people to celebrate her birthday and serve chorizo, serrano ham, Spanish omelet and paella.
Celia had a wicked sense of humor, a fierce independence and a big heart. After she sold her home in 1990, she lived independently in senior housing. She was proud of being 100 years old and living alone and would proudly announce this fact to all.
Celia is survived by her sister Pilar of London and countless friends. Special thanks to Sira Pardo for being at her side every day for the past 3 weeks.
Family and friends will gather and celebrate this wonderful woman's life during a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 5th in the sanctuary of St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 11720 Joan of Arc in Houston, 77024, (713) 465-3414. Graveside services and interment will be 1:00 p.m. at Woodlawn Garden of Memories, 1101 Antoine Drive, also in Houston.
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