

Maria Teresa Sotolongo, lovingly known as “Tete,” was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by love, faith, strength, kindness, and selflessness. Born in Perico, Cuba, she was a daughter to Dulce and Julio, sister to Julito, endlessly devoted wife to Ignacio, loving mother to Odalis (Dali) and Belkis (Becky), grandmother to Blake, Brandon (Meghan), and Kristian (Jordan), great-grandmother to Amelia, Brileigh, Mary Claire, Kallie, and Cameron, and friend, she had a heart that seemed big enough for everyone. Her greatest joy was caring for others and making sure the people in her life always felt loved.
Tete began her career as a teacher, nurturing young students with the same patience and kindness she carried throughout her life. After having to flee from Cuba, she began her new life in the United States in New Orleans. Without knowing much English, she began working in banking and worked her way up with determination. She was a true example of perseverance and strength.
Tete showed her love through the things she did every day. She loved cooking and hosting Sunday lunches for her grandchildren, always making sure everyone was fed and cared for. She enjoyed gardening, photography, decorating for the holidays, listening to music, dancing, spending time at the beach, and cheering on the Miami Marlins. Some of her happiest moments were spent with her grandchildren and five great-granddaughters.
From adventurous travel with Ignacio and her daughters to Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans, Christmas surprises, her famous Easter egg hunts in Miami, and watching her grandsons play baseball, Tete created memories and traditions that her family will cherish forever.
Selfless, loyal, devoted, and optimistic, Tete always saw the best in people. She cared for everyone, from strangers to her own family, with extraordinary compassion.
Tete's greatest legacy is the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the family she brought together. She will forever live on in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Visitation will be held at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn South, 11655 SW 117TH AVE, MIAMI, FL 33186, US, on November 13, 2026, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Committal will take place at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn South & Woodlawn Park Cemetery South, 11655 SW 117th Ave, Miami, FL 33186, US, on November 13, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm.
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