Celeste Aurora Trifilio

Celeste Aurora Abreu Trifilio passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 30th in Houston, Texas, surrounded by her loving and adoring family at one hundred years of age. A trusted confidant, friend, and kindred spirit, Celeste was a pillar of support and a listening ear for her family and loved ones. She was adored by all, known for her elegance and poise. Celeste treated one and all with grace, dignity, and kindness. She was born in San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic, on May 18th, 1924. The youngest of 9 children, Celeste was cherished from a young age. Trained as a classical pianist and educated as a teacher, Celeste had a lifelong love of learning. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ercilia Rodriguez de Abreu, father Ismael Abreu, son Ricardo Trifilio, and her eight siblings. Married to her loving husband of 79 ½ years, Celeste and Dr. Trifilio shared a fruitful partnership and enduring friendship. Together, they immigrated to the United States, eventually making their home in Texas in 1963. Celeste and Dr. Trifilio worked diligently to establish their medical practice in Baytown, Texas. She was instrumental in the founding and administration of the practice. They shared a love of travel, language, music, and dance. Throughout the years, they fostered many close friendships and enjoyed frequent social gatherings. Celeste was a renowned entertainer, magnificent hostess, a gifted culinarian. Celeste and Dr. Trifilio were longtime members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Among her various interests and community activities, Celeste was an enduring supporter of the Serra Club, the Catholic Daughters of America, and the Institute of Hispanic Culture. She served as the President of the East Harris County Ladies Medical Auxiliary. Her fine work as Auxiliary Cookbook Editor exemplified her love of cuisine, teamwork, and fundraising. Celeste was kind, warm, and generous. Her keen intellect and astute insights enabled her to guide and teach others. She was deeply proud of her family and instilled her values of family and discipline through all five generations. She is survived by her husband Dr. Aristides Trifilio; daughter Myra Trifilio; son Aristides Trifilio Jr. Granddaughters: Steffanie Bond and spouse Barry; Patrice Carhart; Regina Switoyus and spouse Vinny; Sophia Trifilio. Great-grandchildren: Austin Bond and spouse Radha; Taylor Bond; Blake McElwain and spouse Amber, Bailey Carhart, Matthew McElwain, Lauren McElwain, Emily Davis. Great-great-grandchildren: Aubrey McElwain, Mason McElwain, Padma Bond. She is also survived by many faithful, loving nieces and nephews. A Roman Catholic Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM on Wednesday, November 13th at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Baytown, Texas, with a Rosary preceding at 10:30 AM. Celeste lived a life committed to faith and family, demonstrating great determination and strength of spirit throughout her long life. A friend to all with a kind word for everyone, Celeste knew how to light up a room. Her humor, generosity, and nurturing heart will be sorely missed in this lifetime.