Mercedes E Garcia

Mercedes "Lila" Garcia, 84, passed away peacefully at her home on September 2, 2025. She was born on September 22, 1940, to Valerio Sepúlveda and Francisca Dominguez in Colón, Cuba, the 4th of 7 children. On her 22nd birthday, in 1962, she married Donato Orlando, to whom she remained married until his death in 2023. She leaves behind her two children, Beatriz Rivera and Orlando Garcia, her grandchildren, Adam, Brianna, Christopher, and David, and her great-granddaughter, Elyse.

Mercedes was an excellent teacher for close to 50 years teaching several generations of students across Cuba, Spain, and the United States. Her positive impact on her students was evident in the numerous notes of appreciation she received from both students and parents, and the recognition she received from Cutler Ridge Elementary where she won Teacher of the Year.

Mercedes' life of service did not stop at the schoolhouse doors, as she devoted herself entirely to her family. Whether it was through her cooking, her words of encouragement, or constant communication, Mercedes was committed to supporting her friends and family. Beyond her love and compassion for her family and students, she also loved to travel and shop for herself and others. Her loving spirit and generosity will be missed by all who were lucky enough to meet her.