Rosa Leonor Whitmarsh, Great-Granddaughter of Calixto García, Passes Away in Miami

October 20, 2023

Cuban intellectual Rosa Leonor Whitmarsh Dueñas, considered one of the most prominent figures of the Island's exile, passed away in Miami this Wednesday, October 18, at the age of 93.

Originally from the Vedado neighborhood in Havana, Rosa Leonor studied at the prestigious Colegio de Las Ursulinas before pursuing higher education and earning a doctorate in Philosophy and Letters from the University of Havana. After emigrating from Cuba in 1961, she established a legacy in the educational field in Mexico, teaching at the National Autonomous University of that country and becoming a passionate advocate for Mexican culture.

Since 1994, Rosa Leonor made her home in Miami, where she taught English at Miami Dade College. In addition, she was a frequent collaborator on radio alongside journalist Agustín Tamargo, where the two shared stories and passion for republican Cuba.

Dr. Rosa Leonor Whitmarsh viewed the Instituto San Carlos de Cayo Hueso as that equidistant place between Havana and Miami where José Martí achieved the unity of all Cubans. To that building and to that institution, which also welcomed another patriot and hero of Cuba's independence, her paternal great-grandfather, Major General Calixto García Iñiguez, she dedicated more than 20 years as a member of the board of directors.

Rosa Leonor Whitmarsh was an active member of various Cuban exile organizations, with her main interest being the Instituto San Carlos de Cayo Hueso. Her passion for Cuba was reflected in her role as president of the Committee for the Centennial of the Republic of Cuba, as well as in her participation in Cuban Cultural Heritage, among other entities.

Dr. Rafael Peñalver, who shared years of work and friendship with the Cuban intellectual, deeply lamented her passing: "We have lost a great figure, a woman who always carried the mambi legacy in her soul." Peñalver highlighted her invaluable contribution to the restoration of San Carlos and shared her last words directed to the center's board: "She expressed her love and recognition, and that it was an honor for her to be part of the center."

Rosa Leonor suffered health complications after contracting COVID-19 during the pandemic, which led her to require oxygen permanently and weakened her until her unfortunate death caused by pulmonary fibrosis.