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Carmen Aurea Recio, 95, of Coconut Creek, FL gained her angel wings on the afternoon of February 6, 2026. Born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, she was one of twelve children to Juan and Luisa Recio Pacheco.

In the late 50's Carmen moved to the Big Apple with several family members to pursue her dreams of modeling. What she found was life filled with love, dancing, singing, and her greatest accomplishment- motherhood. Leading up to her modeling career, she had won Miss Puerto Rico and competed in the Miss USA pageant.

After settling in New York, Carmen married the love of her life, Reinaldo Padilla and they spent nearly half a century together before his passing in 2004. Together they had six children in a home that emphasized a love for all of mankind and God above. One of Carmen's greatest joys was hosting Sunday dinners. There was always an abundance of amazing food; so much that she would send guests home with leftovers.

Outside of being the most kind and compassionate mother, Carmen was extremely talented. She played guitar and would sing with Reinaldo regularly. Drawing, coloring and dancing were a few of her other hobbies.

Carmen was preceded in passing by her husband; daughters, Diane and Jacqueline; son, Edgar and 7 siblings.

She is survived by her children, Orlando (Miriam) Padilla, Herb (Maritza) Padilla, and Carmen Padilla; 12 grandchildren and 4 siblings. Also left to cherish her memory are her son-in-law, Rosendo Rodriguez; and daughter-in-law, Amy Padilla.

In honor of the love and light Carmen shared with one and all, the family requests that guests wear white.

Please share your memories of Carmen or express condolences to her family through our online guestbook. The online guestbook can be found by scrolling below to the Guestbook box below and clicking on the 'View & Sign' button. You can share your thoughts and memories, upload pictures and/or light a candle.