We celebrate the life of Alicia Pareja. Who was born on October 18, 1937, and passed away peacefully on August 31, 2023. A woman of vibrant color and a zest for life, Alicia lived each day fully, embracing joy and sharing it with those around her. Her magnetic personality and unfailing grace touched all those who knew her, and her presence was felt the moment she entered a room. Her witty humor, charismatic nature, and unwavering positivity were merely some facets of her remarkable character.

Alicia profoundly influenced many lives through loving her Saviour, Jesus, and her generous spirit. Teaching others to love without expectation. To worship and bring God's love into everything one does. She demonstrated strength through her assertiveness ,wisdom and through her belief that one should never rely on just oneself, but to welcome the community and fellowship. She leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and the lessons she imparted to those she encountered.

Among her many accomplishments, Alicia held a prestigious position as a debutante in Colombian society, was a diplomat to the US, a proud US Citizen, and volunteered her time at the White House. She later transitioned to a successful career with the Organization of American States (OAS) and eventually established her own business as a testament to her independence and dedication to her beloved daughter. She traveled all over the world and shared her love and memories for this with her daughter and granddaughters. 

Alicia is remembered with love by her daughter, Alexandra Garcia Smith; son-in-law, Neil Smith; and cherished granddaughters, London and Skylar Smith. She is also survived her brother, Gonzalo Pareja, nephew John Gonzalo Pareja, niece Alicia Bright-Pareja, niece Bianca Celmer,  nephew Gonzalo Pareja II, by her best friend and sister by heart , Leonor Munoz . 

 Her legacy carries on in her teachings. Through her daughter, she shared the essence of womanhood, motherhood, the enjoyment of life and the love for Jesus. Alicia's open-door policy and generous nature allowed her to extend her love and care to her daughter's friends, whom she saw as her own children. She taught all to be themselves, that love will always overcome, and that there is something valuable and positive about any situation in our lives. " Dios siempre sabe".

Alicia carried a deep love for her native Colombia, often reflecting this adoration in her preference for Latin cuisine and the Colombian National Football Team. She took joy in playing Phase 10, Uno, and Dominos with her family, as well as watching musical performances such as Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, and Les Miserables. Her favorite ways to keep active included tasks around the house and her love of cleanliness was nearly unparalleled- this is another way to say "OCD".

Her favorite books were the "Jesus Calling" series by Sarah Young, and she had a soft spot for all ballads and romantic songs constantly humming  Ave Maria, The Ballad of Adeline and all things Andre Bocelli . Alicia often enjoyed moments of relaxation watching her favorite novelas , reality competitions, and soccer games on Telemundo, along with a glass of her adored Chivas Regal, Favorite Cab Sav,  or a refreshing Diet Coke over ice, in a very cold glass.

Her love for her country was matched only by her love for her family and friends. Alicia’s favorite vacation spots included the beach with her family, her home country- Colombia, and just about anywhere she could be surrounded by friends and family. Locally, she enjoyed spending time at the Kennedy Center and dining at Latin cuisine restaurants, and fine dining.

A celebration of Alicia’s life will be held on October 14, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the Worship Center, followed by a reception at 12:30 PM. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, a fund has been set up for "Mami's Last wishes for her Granddaughters", and donations can be made at this URL: https://everloved.com/life-of…

Alicia's life was a canvas painted with vibrant colors, love for family, and the joy of life. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us as we remember her with love and grace. In Alicia's memory we carry forward her teachings of forgiveness, and generosity while also celebrating the beautiful complexities of life. As Alicia showed us, life is indeed beautiful.

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