Candelaria Guerrero Garibay

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Candelaria Guerrero Garibay, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend. She was born on February 2, 1937, in Villa Ocampo, Durango, Mexico, and found her peace on April 7, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. Candelaria's journey through life exemplified the qualities of strength, love, and dedication that endeared her to everyone she met. Candelaria was a proud matriarch of a large family, leaving behind her children: Marta, Jesus, Candelaria, Teresa, Jose, Miguel, Guadalupe, Marcelina, Enrique, Luzelena, and Carmen. She was a grandmother to 44 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 51 great-grandchildren, in addition to having 9 great-great-grandchildren. Her family was her pride, and she devoted her life to nurturing and supporting them. Raised in Canutillo, Durango, Candelaria moved to California at a young age, where she worked as a field worker. In 1987, seeking new opportunities, she relocated to Arizona, where she continued her journey, eventually finding work in a stitchery restaurant. Candelaria embodied the spirit of hard work, and her colleagues knew her as a dedicated and humorous individual, often sharing a laugh amid the challenges of daily work. Beyond her professional commitments, Candelaria cherished her time spent in the company of loved ones. She found joy in dancing and listening to music, activities that reflected her fun-loving nature. Her strong character and deep sense of compassion touched many lives, and she was loved by a wide circle of friends and family. A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at Meldrum Mortuary, 52 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201. A graveside service will take place at 1:00 PM at Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201. As we gather to celebrate the life of Candelaria Guerrero Garibay, let us remember her strength, her laughter, and her unwavering love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of values and memories that will forever be cherished in our hearts.