Andrea Divina Lajara

Fort Worth – Andrea Divina Lajara, age 85, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at AVIR at North Richland Hills, surrounded by her loving family. She was affectionately known to family and friends as “Diva,” a nickname inspired by her distinctive sense of style and vibrant personality. To those closest to her, she was lovingly called “Abuela” and “Mamma,” titles that reflected the warmth, care, and guidance she shared not only with her family but with many in her circle of friends.

Andrea was born on November 24, 1940, in the Dominican Republic to María de la Cruz and Juan Bautista Cepeda. She grew up in San Francisco de Macorís and graduated from Escuela Primaria Padre Brea. During her school years, she enjoyed music and proudly played the bonbon drum in the school band.

Andrea later moved to the United States, where she began building a life and raising her family in Jamaica, Queens, New York. She eventually settled in Plainfield, New Jersey, where she and her husband lovingly raised their two sons. After leaving Plainfield, Andrea relocated to Puerto Rico, where she lived for several years before returning to the Dominican Republic. In 2018, she moved to Euless, Texas, where she continued to enjoy being close to her family. Throughout her life, her greatest joy was spending time with her children and caring for her loved ones.

Andrea worked tirelessly to support her family, often providing childcare for relatives and families in her community. Many children were welcomed into her home and cared for with the same warmth and devotion she gave her own.

Her true passion was cooking. For Andrea, cooking was an art — a quiet kind of magic that transformed simple ingredients into meals filled with love. The aromas from her kitchen often drifted through the neighborhood, drawing friends and family to her door with the familiar question: “What’s for dinner, and can we stay?”

Those who knew Andrea will remember her for her infectious laugh & 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 leaves behind her loving sons, Alex Lajara and Juan Lajara Jr.; her daughter-in-law, Karen Lajara; and her cherished grandchildren: Niagee O’Brien (Lajara), Alex Jr. Lajara, Jurney Lajara, Kayla Lajara, Leo Lajara, and Jasiel Lajara. She is also survived by 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.