FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tampa, FL – 9/13/2025: With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Dr. Luis A. Capdevila, known lovingly to many as Louis, a man whose life embodied faith, service, patriotism, and love for his family and community.
Born in Cuba in 1959, Louis came to the United States with his parents and brothers in 1962 on the Freedom Flights, fleeing the oppression that overtook his homeland. From those humble beginnings in West Tampa, where he and his brothers worked as children selling produce on the streets, Louis built a life dedicated to hard work, family, faith, and service to others.
In 1972, he and his family founded what is now La Teresita/Capdevila’s Restaurant, a Tampa Bay institution that has become one of the community’s most beloved gathering places. For decades, Louis could be found greeting customers with warmth and gratitude, turning a restaurant into a home for thousands of families across the Bay.
In 1983, he became an ordained minister and went on to found Kings Ministries, where he served as pastor for 25 years. His vision and commitment to faith led to the establishment of more than 200 missionary churches across Cuba, Haiti, Central and South America, India, and Pakistan. His ministry brought hope, healing, and opportunity to countless lives around the world.
Louis was also a proud American and strong activist, never afraid to stand up for what he believed in. Having fled communism as a child, he understood better than most the price of freedom. That conviction fueled a lifetime of patriotism and conservative advocacy. From the school board to the halls of the Senate and even the presidency, Louis engaged passionately in the fight for this great nation.
He was a consistent and respected voice in the community, unafraid to speak truth to power and stand for traditional values. His words carried weight, not just in Tampa, but across Florida and beyond. Recognized by many leaders for his influence and dedication, Louis was sought after for his wisdom and perspective. His presence was felt everywhere—from grassroots meetings to national stages—and his legacy as a patriot will endure.
His achievements were recognized with honorary doctorates from Everett University and Faith Outreach Theological Seminary, alongside numerous awards for his contributions to business, philanthropy, and community service. Yet, Louis never sought recognition—his joy came from helping others, mentoring, and giving generously to schools, churches, and nonprofits.
He was also a gifted motivational speaker and the author of 12 books, inspiring people with words rooted in faith, perseverance, patriotism, and love.
Above all, Louis was a devoted husband of 45 years to his wife Anita, a proud father of three children, and a loving grandfather to seven grandchildren, who were the pride of his life.
And to all who knew him, Louis will always be remembered for his warm smile and his unforgettable words—he never met a stranger, and so often would call you “my brother,” followed by a heartfelt “I love you, my brother.” He meant it, because he truly loved people. Louis lived with an open heart, and everyone who crossed his path felt it.
Louis Capdevila’s life is a testament to the American dream, to resilience in the face of hardship, and to the power of faith and conviction. He rose from selling produce on the streets of Tampa to becoming a leader, activist, builder, and servant to thousands — but he never stopped being the humble, kind-hearted man who treated every person as family.
His absence leaves a hole that cannot be filled, but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the family he loved, the community he built, the nation he fought for, and the faith he shared.
