Yonathan de León Machín, the Mayor of Arrecife, has expressed his condolences following the death of María Pabón Quijano, a 103-year-old resident of Valterra and one of the city’s cherished centenarians.
The mayor learned of her passing through a message from her family, who had invited him to celebrate her birthday with her last autumn. Her death occurred on Friday morning, and her wake will take place at Enalta (Altavista) on Saturday, 29, at 10 am, followed by her funeral on Sunday at the Arrecife cemetery.
Originally from Colombia, María Pabón moved to Venezuela at a young age, where she built her family. Her relatives have lived in Arrecife for nearly 20 years and wanted her to spend her final years surrounded by love and support. The family has arranged for the funeral to accommodate many descendants who live abroad and wish to attend.
In his message, Mayor de León conveyed heartfelt sympathy on behalf of the Municipal Corporation, highlighting the sadness felt in the community for the loss of one of their oldest neighbours. He described María as someone who had contributed significantly to her family’s well-being, emphasising the community’s grief in Arrecife.
