Matilde Rodríguez de Párraga

Matilde Parraga, born in Fusagasugá, Colombia, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the age of 84. 

She leaves behind a legacy of courage, hard work, independence, laughter, and love for her family. Matilde was a strong-willed, hardworking, and courageous woman with a sharp wit and an unpredictable sense of humor. She always had a saying or a joke ready to make people laugh, and her vibrant personality left a lasting impression on those who knew her. 

She migrated to the U.S. as a young bride, and along with her husband Jorge, they built a new life with hard work and dedication. In their new country they became active members of their community and raised their family, always striving to give their daughters opportunities they had never had themselves. Their home was a gathering place for family and friends, where everyone was welcome at Sunday asados and around a table filled with traditional Colombian food. 

Cooking was one of Matilde's greatest expressions of love, and her frijoles con pezuña were, without question, the best around. After the loss of her beloved husband, Matilde continued to live independently, with her daughters and their families at the center of her world. Her favorite place was her patio, surrounded by friends, family, beautiful orchids, and a cold beer. Those who gathered there soon learned her favorite motto: “Dancin, Dancin, Drinkin, Drinkin, and Tokin Abao!” 

She is survived by her daughters, Doris (Aldemar) and Paulina (Michael), her grandchildren Andrew (Melanie), Michelle, Christian (Tania) and Catalina (Nikolas) and her great-grandchildren Emma, William, Alice and Lorenzo. Matilde's passing leaves an immeasurable void, but her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the traditions she passed down, the meals shared around her table, and the laughter that filled her home. 

She will be remembered for her strength, generosity, fierce independence, and the unmistakable humor that made her one of a kind. 

Mami, you will be loved and missed always. May there always be music, laughter, dancing, and a place at our table in your honor.