General Information

Full Name: Adelfa Bagdadi
Date of Death: Monday, December 29, 2025

Adelfa Bagdadi (1945–2025)

Adelfa (Castillo) Bagdadi, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 29, 2025. She was 80 years old. She was surrounded by those she loved most: her son and daughter.

A Life of Adventure

Born in Havana, Cuba, on February 23, 1945, to Juana and Jorge Castillo, Adelfa’s early years were filled with the warmth of a large, bustling family. Her adventurous spirit emerged early; as a teenager, she taught English in the mountains of Cuba before emigrating to the United States at age 16.

Settling in New York City, Adelfa attended beauty school and built a career as a hairstylist. It was in the city that she met her husband, Israel Bagdadi. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared 35 wonderful years of marriage until his passing.

A Natural Storyteller

Adelfa didn’t just enter a room; she arrived with a story already in progress. Known for her quick wit and radiant smile, she was the ultimate confidante. She had a rare gift for listening and offered advice that was as wise as it was sincere.

Her zest for life took her across the globe. From the pyramids of Egypt and the Panama Canal to the far reaches of Europe, Adelfa crossed nearly everything off her bucket list. Even in her final hours, she found joy in recounting her globe-trotting adventures, reliving the world she had so bravely explored.

Her Greatest Joy

Of all her roles, being “Abuela” was perhaps her favorite. She adored her grandchildren, Jesse and Katie. Many afternoons were spent with Katie raiding Abuela’s closet—donning her dresses, shoes, jewelry, and makeup—or chasing Jesse around playing “little chickens” or other made up games.

Family and Legacy

Adelfa was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Israel Bagdadi; her granddaughter, Vanessa Bagdadi; her parents, Juana and Jorge; and her many cherished canine companions: Fala, Piruli, Blacky, Cabulla, Lassie, Tiger, Lobo, and Denver. She is survived by her daughter, Linnette (Chris Decker); her son, Selim(Denise Forte); and her adored grandchildren, Jesse and Katie. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Albert and Rebecca Bagdadi; her nephews, Salomon (Gal) and Toffy (Amy) Bagdadi; her grand nieces and nephews  Joey, Emma, Hannah and David, and a wide circle of cousins and friends.

In honor of Adelfa’s deep love for her many dogs over the years, please consider a donation to your local animal shelter in her memory.