Stella is a friend to all—witty, lovable, fun, passionate, and everything you could wish for in a person. She walked into a room, and her smile and energy would move others. Not only was she the life of the party, but sometimes the party herself! She would listen, encourage, and motivate anyone. She truly believed in and saw the best in others. Stella's love was more than what could be conceived; she loved so much. She was a great dancer, singer, and still loves music. She was proud of her life and what she had experienced and done, living through the pivotal shift from 1950s marginalization to the rise of Chicana identity. She overcame deep-seated gender and cultural obstacles, and her life stands as a pillar of strength—a testament to the resilience required to build a lasting foundation for the Mexican American women who follow in her footsteps. Stella is a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, Brown Beret, and loved by so many.

Recently, our family struggled to have doctors diagnose the changes we saw in Stella over the years. Signs of dementia became more apparent, but it was only recently that she was finally diagnosed. On March 8th, we were told she might not make it to Sunday. Now in hospice, she's continually declining, and nurse visits are daily. We were blindsided by how quickly things changed. My grandpa and I are now facing the urgent need to pay mortgage, fulfill her funeral wishes, and support her husband’s future, all while making sure she rests in peace the way she wishes.

The funds raised will help cover cremation expenses, her celebration of life ceremony, the mortgage, and provide support for Stella’s husband Eddy as he navigates this difficult transition. Any support during this time would mean so much to our family. Thank you for helping us honor Stella and support her loved ones.

Update: Stella passed this morning, 4/12/2026 6:57am