Delia Fernandez-Alvarez Obituary

On February 17, 2025, Delia Victoria Fernandez-Alvarez peacefully departed this life, surrounded by her beloved sons, Michael Jr. and Danny, along with their wives, Julie, and Marie. A radiant spirit of love and joy, Delia had an extraordinary ability to uplift those around her, always wishing the best for everyone she met.
Born on February 26, 1931, in Camaguey, Cuba, Delia was the 14th of fifteen children born to Micaela and Antonio Alfonso Fernandez. Known for her vibrant energy, Delia fondly recounted her childhood filled with the warmth of family gatherings at the dinner table, a cherished tradition that exemplified her deep love for her family. Delia was profoundly moved by her mother, Micaela, who lived to the remarkable age of 103, inspiring our mom Delia with her exceptional longevity and strength.
In late 1951, Delia ventured to the United States to enhance her English-speaking skills for a job with international flights on Pan Am. Destiny intervened when she caught the eye of a certain Naval Seaman stationed nearby. Upon first sight, our dad told his friend, "That's the girl I'm going to marry," and, remarkably, he did. Their love story blossomed despite the language barrier as Michael and Delia wed in Cuba, honeymooned in Havana, and embraced a life filled with the adventures of a Navy family. From Rhode Island to Key West, Norfolk to Washington DC, to finally settle in Annandale, Virginia.
Delia's work ethic was evident in everything she pursued, from her early days as a cashier at Food Fair to a bank teller to Head Teller to being offered the VP position at Dominion National Bank, whereupon she instead took an intriguing and fulfilling period at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), in which Delia excelled within the Motion Picture Preservation Lab (MPL). All this leading to the Archivist hand picking Delia to oversee and complete the transfer of the original 8mm Zapruder film of President Kennedy's assassination to digital-all observed by the watchful eyes of the FBI.
Her culinary talents were legendary, becoming a cornerstone of family gatherings through her delicious homemade Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja and Arroz Con Pollo. For over 50 years, Delia and Michael shared a beautiful life in Fairfax County, dancing and celebrating with their Cuban friends, nurturing a loving family, and then finally enjoying their retirement together. Their love remained steadfast until her husband, our Poppi's passing in December 2011. For the next thirteen plus years, Delia's spirit remained vibrant as she dedicated herself to her friends and community before moving to Asheville at the age of ninety-two, spending the final two years of her life with her son Michael and his wife Julie.
Delia is survived by her sister Elvia, her brother Lupine, and her sons, Michael Jr., and Danny, along with their wives, Julie, and Marie. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren-Melanie, Brandon & Jennifer, Justin & Sarah, Jessica, Amber & Charlie, Alexandra & Pedro-and her great-grandchildren Stephen, Christian, Lucius, Jaden, Lilly, Collin, and Step Great-Grandchild Scotland. Her dear friends Carmen Besos, Gladys Perez, Elena and Beker Orihuela, Jose and Aurorieta Teran, her godson Gino Cioffi and so many more will fondly remember her.
Known affectionately as "Dee" by her friends, "Abuela" by her sixteen grandchildren & great grandchildren, and simply "Mom" to her sons, Delia's warmth and generosity touched many lives. As we commemorate her life, we take comfort in the thought that she has been reunited with the great love of her life, our beloved Poppi. Rest in peace, Dear Mom; we love you dearly!
We are planning a memorial tribute on June 21, 2025, at the gravesite to be followed by a reception, to be announced. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Four Seasons Hospice Care, they were so sensitive, helpful, and caring throughout the 5 weeks of Hospice they tendered on our Mother's behalf. They are located at 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731. Direct line:866-466-9734.