Former Miss Universe Dead at 80 After Making History 62 Years Ago
- - Former Miss Universe Dead at 80 After Making History 62 Years Ago
Liz LindainDecember 24, 2025 at 12:04 AM
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Bettmann via Getty Images
It was announced on Instagram that former Miss Universe winner Ieda Maria Vargas passed away on Monday, days before her birthday on Dec. 31. A cause of death has not been revealed.
In 1963, Vargas made history as the first Brazilian Miss Universe, becoming the first person from her country to win a major international beauty pageant. During her term as Miss Universe, she opened the Capital Plaza Mall in Maryland. Before becoming a beauty queen, Vargas was an actress.
"It is with deep sorrow that the family of Ieda Maria Vargas announces her passing, which occurred this Monday," the statement read, as translated into English. "In this moment of immense pain, we thank all the manifestations of affection, respect and solidarity received. Ieda was a woman of light, who marked the history and lives of many people, leaving a legacy of love, joy, and inspiration."
The Miss Universe Organization and the Brazilian pageant organization also confirmed the death and wrote loving tributes for the late pageant queen on social media.
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Vargas was just 18 years old when she was crowned Miss Universe in Miami Beach, Florida. Five years later, in 1968, Martha Vasconcellos became the second Brazilian woman to win the title. To date, Vargas and Vasconcellos remain the only Miss Universe winners from Brazil.
Since the announcement, fans, actresses and public figures have shared tributes and condolences across social media.
"Ieda Maria Vargas was much more than a title," Natália Guimarães, a Brazilian actress and TV host, commented on Instagram. "She opened doors, inspired generations, and helped build everything we today call Miss Brazil! May your legacy live on forever. ❤️✨🙏🏼."
"Deepest sympathies to the family, friends, & fans of Miss Universe 1963," a fan wrote. "Rest in peace Ieda Maria Vargas 🕊🤍."
Another commented, translated to English, "Such sad news, may she rest in peace 🙏."
"Forever a queen," one wrote.
"A legacy that will never fade. 😢," one said.
"We bid farewell to someone who inspired our generations of masses. It opened doors and allowed us the opportunity to dream, fight and achieve," a fan expressed. "Ieda, thank you for allowing us to continue the legacy. ✨🤍 May Our Lady of Nazareth intercede in your passage. May you rest in peace!"
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This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 23, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
