Casilda Maria Antonia Austrich was born in Habana, Cuba and was a descendant of Spanish parents. Casilda studied music as a young girl and became an accomplished pianist. Her love of music and art transcended the challenges she and her husband faced when they emigrated from Cuba in 1966 for political reasons. Musical talent and appreciation have been passed on to her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Cooking and gardening became her passions and she excelled at these as well. Many, many fantastic meals were enjoyed at her house and that culinary interest was also passed on to her children and grandchildren. Casilda and her husband ran a business in candy and chocolate distribution in Jamaica Plain for over 40 years. They worked directly with small mom & pop bodegas and supported a wide Hispanic and immigrant community in Boston. Many came for a caring and compassionate listener in addition to purchasing goods for their businesses. On Friday afternoons, the family warehouse would be flocked by school children as Casilda had established a tradition of giving away free candy to the children who came at that special "hour". Casilda was a dedicated mother, sister and wife who placed herself last and selflessly cared for everyone else. She was an avid reader of history and newsprint and would always save articles for just about everyone. In addition to a music career, Casilda also left behind a career in diplomacy and international relations. The Cuban Revolution of 1959 cut her career aspirations short and she never was able to fulfill those dreams. Resiliency and practicality were traits that allowed for her unwavering focus on the business and her family. As a grandmother, Casilda enjoyed mischievous deeds on her grandchildren and was as playful as they were. Traditional Spanish card games of Canasta and Briska were played often and everywhere- at the warehouse, the beach, the arboretum and at family homes. She and her grandchildren enjoyed many hours of conversations, learning and fun. Her sister often accompanied them and many wonderful memories were shared. Casilda's dementia robbed her of continued enjoyment of life. She maintained grace and dignity throughout the past four years of her diagnosis of dementia. She did not forget family members and appreciated their words and touch during her difficult last days. Casilda passed away peacefully and privately and had been lovingly and respectfully surrounded by her family in her last days- husband, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She seemed very much in peace. Visitation will be held in the Bell-O'Dea Funeral Home, 376 Washington St., Brookline on Thursday June 16th from 5:00 - 7:00 PM.