Vevita Leon
November 11, 1944 – August 16, 2026

Vevita Leon, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at the age of 81.

Vevita was born in Havana, Cuba, to Manuel Jose Leon and Zoila Perez de Leon. At just 18 years old, she courageously came to the United States, beginning a new chapter far from the home she knew. In time, the United States became her home, a country she embraced with pride while always carrying her Cuban heritage close to her heart.

For many years, Vevita called La Romana, Dominican Republic, home. There, she worked alongside many creative and forward-thinking people in the development of what is now known as Altos de Chavón at Casa de Campo. She treasured those years, surrounded by artists, musicians, and other creative minds, and the experience remained a meaningful part of her life.

Eventually, Vevita returned to the United States and made Baltimore her home for more than 27 years. She built a strong community there and cherished the friendships and relationships she formed. She worked alongside her daughter for many years, as well as alongside cherished coworkers.

Vita was an avid traveler throughout her life. Whether cruising with her beloved sister, visiting family around the world, or taking a road trip to the beach, she was always ready for the next adventure. She loved good food and was always eager to try something new. Ordering dessert was non-negotiable. Her love of music and dancing was undeniable. She had an impeccable sense of style, a warm and engaging personality, and a smile that drew people to her. Her presence brought energy and warmth to every gathering.

Vevita especially treasured her role as a grandmother. She shared a love of movies with her grandsons, often sneaking away with them for weekend movie outings. Before long, she became a familiar and enthusiastic presence on the sidelines of their sporting events. She never missed an opportunity to speak with them in Spanish or share stories and glimpses of the rich heritage she was so proud of.

She embraced her retirement years with the same enthusiasm she had brought to every chapter of her life. She traveled with friends, made extended visits with family, and enjoyed lunch dates and walks with friends. She remained curious, social, and engaged in the people and world around her.

In recent months, Vevita's health and mobility had begun to decline, but until the very end, she remained unmistakably herself—sharp-minded, strong-willed, impeccably stylish, and possessing the effortless stubborn charm her family and friends knew and loved so well.

Vita lived a full and meaningful life, marked by strength, independence, intelligence, style, and an unmistakable sense of humor. Those who knew her will remember not only her determination, but also the countless little things that made her uniquely Vevita.

Vevita is survived by her only daughter, Tina King, and her beloved son-in-law, Brian. She was a devoted grandmother to Jack and Ben, whom she loved dearly and considered among the greatest joys of her life.

She is also survived by her siblings, Manuel Jose Leon, Zoila Leon, and Maria Teresa Fried, as well as her beloved nieces and extended family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 11, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Baltimore, with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rev. Timothy Brown, S.J., Ignatian Spirituality Center at Loyola University Maryland .

Vevita will be deeply missed and forever remembered.