Violeta Antonia Peña's Obituary
Violeta Antonia Vidal Peña, 90, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Atrium Health Stanly. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 9, 2026, in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel with Father Peter Fitzgibbons officiating.
Violeta was born May 13, 1935, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, to the late Diojenes Iliarion Vidal Suazo and Carmen Nerida Reyes Vidal. She devoted her life to her family as a homemaker and will be remembered as a strong, loving, and vibrant presence in the lives of all who knew her.
Her family lovingly remembers her as authentic and spirited, a woman who knew her own mind and was affectionately regarded as "the boss." She had a wonderful sense of humor and a joyful personality. Violeta loved to dance, sing, and enjoy life's simple pleasures-often with a Corona in hand and a smile on her face. Even during difficult times, she maintained a positive spirit and was known for her constant prayers and deep faith.
She had a warm and generous heart and was always ready to listen to others. Violeta enjoyed sewing, ironing, and cooking when her health allowed. She also loved spending time sitting outside, watching the world go by, and keeping up with her favorite soap operas. Observant and attentive, she could often be found by the window, quietly watching everything happening outside.
Family was the center of her life and the source of her greatest joy. Everyone in the family lovingly called her "Mama." One cherished memory her family holds dear is watching her dance with her grandchildren, creating moments filled with laughter and love. In earlier years, she hosted lively Saturday night gatherings in her New York apartment, bringing family and friends together in celebration. Her devotion to her family was a defining part of who she was and one of the reasons she lived such a long and full life.
She is survived by her children, Rafael Ramirez of New York, Ivelisse Peña of Rhode Island, Eridania Giammanco (Jerry) of North Carolina, and Henry Peña (Ana Rosa) of the Dominican Republic; her stepson, Conrad Peña of the Dominican Republic; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her stepdaughter, Virginia Peña.
Violeta's love, strength, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
What’s your fondest memory of Violeta?
What’s a lesson you learned from Violeta?
Share a story where Violeta's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Violeta you’ll never forget.
How did Violeta make you smile?