Andrea Divina Lajara

Andrea Divina Lajara, age 85, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at AVIR at North Richland Hills, surrounded by her loving family. Affectionately known as “Diva” for her distinctive sense of style and vibrant personality, she was lovingly called “Abuela” and “Mamma” by those closest to her, reflecting the warmth, care, and guidance she offered to her family and many friends.

Born on November 24, 1940, in the Dominican Republic to María de la Cruz and Juan Bautista Cepeda, Andrea grew up in San Francisco de Macorís and graduated from Escuela Primaria Padre Brea. She enjoyed music as a girl and proudly played the bonbon drum in her school band. She later moved to the United States, building a life and raising her family in Jamaica, Queens, New York, before settling in Plainfield, New Jersey, where she and her husband lovingly raised their two sons. In later years she lived in Puerto Rico, returned for a time to the Dominican Republic, and in 2018 moved to Euless, Texas, to be close to her family. Her greatest joy remained spending time with her children and caring for those she loved.

Andrea worked tirelessly to support her family and provided childcare for relatives and neighbors with the same devotion she gave her own children. Her true passion was cooking, which she practiced as an art, turning simple ingredients into meals made with love. The aromas from her kitchen often filled the neighborhood, drawing friends and family who would ask with a smile what was for dinner and whether they could stay.

She will be remembered for her infectious laugh and smile, generous heart, quiet strength, sharp wit, and unwavering kindness. Andrea was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Juan Lajara Sr., and her siblings, Lourdes and Guillermo. She is survived by her sons, Alex Lajara and Juan Lajara Jr.; her daughter-in-law, Karen Lajara; her grandchildren, Niagee O’Brien (Lajara), Alex Jr. Lajara, Jurney Lajara, Kayla Lajara, Leo Lajara, and Jasiel Lajara; her great-grandson, Khole O’Brien; her brother, Bello Cepeda of the Dominican Republic; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.