Rosa Maria Caraballo

Rosa was born on January 11, 1931, in Cartagena, Colombia. She came to the United States at the age of 32 and proudly became an American citizen. Despite this, her deep love for her hometown of Cartagena remained ever-present, and she carried those roots with her throughout her long and meaningful life.

She was a woman of great kindness and virtue, as well as a devoted wife and mother. She made it her life’s mission to live with faith and a spirit-filled heart. She was educated as a teacher and an executive secretary, and her commitment to learning and service was evident in all she did.

Rosa was married to Ramon Caraballo for 28 beautiful years, until his passing in 1992. During the early years of their marriage, she formed a rare and beautiful bond with her three stepdaughters, Helen McDermott, Lucy Futtrell, and Sol Suggs. These relationships grew into something deeply meaningful, and they became, in every sense, her daughters. A few years later, Ramon and Rosa were blessed by the birth of their children, Evan Caraballo and Julia Caraballo Gilliland.

Her family and the Lord were the center of her life. She was deeply devoted to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish their heartfelt and often humorous memories of “Abuelita” and “Grandma Rosa.”

She was later blessed to find love again with Juan Ortiz-Rivera, with whom she shared 22 wonderful years. Together, they embraced life to the fullest – traveling, staying active, and celebrating life’s milestones with family and friends. They never met a stranger and were known for their genuine warmth, making everyone feel welcome.

Her children survive her, Evan Caraballo of Ivydale, West Virginia (Scott Caraballo, Zachary Griffin, Julie Caraballo), and Julia Caraballo Gilliland and her husband, Brian, of Temple, Georgia (Lindsay Gilliland); her stepchildren, Carmen Caraballo, Helen Caraballo McDermott, Lucy Caraballo Futtrell, Sol Caraballo Suggs, Ramon Caraballo, Jr., and Ramon “Chito” Caraballo; as well as many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In accordance with Rosa’s wishes, no formal services will be held. She will be laid to rest alongside her husband, Ramon Caraballo, at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

The family invites you to share a memory or condolence at www.nationalcremation.com.