With love and gratitude, we gather to celebrate the life of Lucila Maria (Middleton) Matos, a woman whose laughter, kindness, and strength brightened the lives of everyone who knew her.

Born in Panama, Lucila came to the U.S. and settled in New York in 1968 to begin a new chapter in her life. It was there, in the late 1970s, that she met the love of her life, Pedro Matos, and together they built a home filled with warmth, humor, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. Their daughter, Jessica, was born in 1979,  the light of their lives and Lucila's greatest joy.

Lucila worked for many years as a seamstress, taking pride in her craft and creating beautiful pieces with care and precision. After moving to Florida, she continued to work hard, often in kitchens where her love of food and her joyful spirit shone through.

She loved doing crossword puzzles and was happiest when cooking or baking for her family. When living in New York, Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners were always held at her home and everything was made from scratch. Those who sat at her table will forever remember not just her delicious food, but the laughter and love that filled the room.

Lucila was the funniest person you could ever meet, with a smile and laugh that could light up any space. Her warmth, humor, and generous heart will be remembered and cherished always.

Lucila is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Jessica Matos and Armando Torres; and by her brother and sister-in-law, Rodolfo and Doris Middleton. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pedro Matos; her sister Anita Castro; her brothers Victor, Jose, and Roberto Middleton; and her parents, Roberto and Elvia Middleton.

The family deeply appreciates your love and support Her spirit lives on in every shared laugh, every homemade meal, and every memory of her radiant smile. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.