Celebrating the Memory of Wilma Gloria Matos

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of Wilma Gloria Matos Negron, known lovingly as Wilma, Bimbi, Mom, Nana, and Friend, at only 68 years old. Wilma was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by love, resilience, and compassion.

As I write this, I find it impossible to speak about her in anything but the most personal terms because she was more than just a mother-in-law to me—she was like a mother in every way that mattered. From the moment we met, she embraced me with the kind of love that only a truly selfless heart could offer. She cared for me when I was sick and pregnant with my first child, teaching me lessons in compassion and strength that I will carry forever.

Wilma was a deeply accomplished and multifaceted woman, though she never sought recognition. She earned a business degree, a degree from the Fashion Institute of Los Angeles, and my personal favorite—she was a gifted healer, practicing modalities from massage and cranial sacral therapy to reflexology and energy work.

Her journey was not an easy one. She came to the mainland from Puerto Rico with a young family and a disability, working tirelessly to build a better life for her loved ones while never losing sight of her calling to serve others. She was feisty and fearless, standing her ground with grit, determination and an infectious smile for much of her life.

In recent years, after the devastating loss of her son—my husband Roger DeTorres—in 2018, Wilma’s focus shifted even more deeply to family. Though her heart carried unimaginable grief, she poured herself into caring for her grandchildren and being a steady presence for those of us who were grieving alongside her. Wilma chose love every day, showing up for holidays, birthdays, and the quiet moments in between with her warm smile and unwavering strength.

Her passing leaves an immense void in our lives. It feels as though we’re grieving all over again—not just her, but the loss of the family we once were together. During this incredibly difficult time, especially as the holidays approach, we are reaching out to our village for support.

The costs associated with honoring a loved one’s life are staggering, and the emotional weight is compounded by financial strain. Your generosity will help cover the funeral and memorial expenses and provide support for the family as we navigate this loss.

Wilma leaves behind a family who loved her fiercely, including:

Carlos, her devoted son

Lucas, her beloved grandson

Kristina, her loving daughter-in-law

Robyn, her daughter-in-law, who she loved as her own

Rowan and Rayne, her cherished grandchildren

Hugo, her caring brother

Wendy, her supportive sister

Coral and Pearla, her adoring nieces

Thank you for honoring Wilma’s life, her legacy of love, and the strength she embodied. Your kindness means more to us than words can ever express.