Actress Elizabeth Pena, known most recently as Sofia Vergara’s mother, Pilar, on ABC’s Modern Family passed away on October 14 at the age of 55.
At the time of her death no cause was confirmed, reports only stated that she died in a Los Angeles hospital of natural causes after battling a brief illness.
The Los Angeles Country Coroner has now listed complications relating to alcohol abuse as the causes of death for Pena.
The complications listed on her death certificate include cirrhosis of the liver due to alcohol, cardiopulmonary arrest, cardiogenic shock and acute gastrointestinal bleeding.
After her death family, friends, as well as the Entertainment industry had an outpouring of grief for Pena. Her nephew Mario-Francisco Robles wrote a tribute stating, “Tonight, my family is heartbroken. There’s now a void that will never be filled. All we can do now is remember your sharp sense of humor, your endless hunger for life, and your never ending pursuit of happiness.”
It appears as if Pena hid her struggle with alcohol and no one was aware of the extent of her problems.
Pena is survived by her husband, Hans Rolla as well as two children, no funeral plans have been released.
Telisa Carter
Telisa enjoys learning and writing about all things entertainment in the world of Hollywood. When she isn't catching up on her favorite TV shows, she likes to read, and obsess over all things football.
