Maria Julia Perez

September 25, 1928 - January 25, 2022

Dr. Maria Julia Pérez, born in Havana, Cuba on July 27, 1926 to Sara and Alfonso Pérez, (registered officially on September 25, 1928), died peacefully on January 25, 2022 in Miami, Florida, at the age of 95. Maria Julia emigrated to the United States through Spain in 1964 escaping the Cuban regime. With her three doctorates in Education and Physical Education, she managed to create a new professional life for herself in Miami, Florida, first as a Physical Education teacher and subsequently as a Guidance Counselor. In her youth in Cuba, Maria Julia was an avid athlete, playing volleyball, basketball and competing in the javelin throw, representing her native land in the World Games and the Olympics. Maria Julia was strength personified: strength of character, strength of will, strength of spirit. Her sense of humor and playfulness were well-known and evident until her last days. She worked tirelessly to support her parents, and served as a custodian for several nieces and nephews, supporting their education. A true humanitarian, generous to a fault and with whatever means she had available, Maria Julia contributed throughout her life to numerous charities and political organizations, and even provided financial support to friends in Cuba. An avid traveler, she lived every moment and made every moment of her life count. Maria Julia is survived by a wide circle of family, friends and colleagues who will forever be inspired by her energy, passion and commitment to human rights. She will be missed greatly.