Ami Gonzales (1986-2021)

It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of Ami Gonzales after a prolonged illness. Ami passed away on October 2nd, 2021, at the age of 35, while visiting cousins in Las Vegas. He was born on July 25th, 1986, in Simi Valley and grew up in Fillmore. He was the beloved son of Ernie and Techi (Esther) Gonzales of Fillmore. He was proceeded in death by his father Ernie Jr., grandfather Ernie Gonzales Sr. and David Lopez, uncles Carlos Lopez, Dennis and Matt Gonzales. He is survived by his mom, sister Eula, brother-in-law Chris, nephew Griffin Hunter from Utah and brother Josiah Gonzales; Grandmothers Noemi Loza of Santa Paula and Bella Gonzales of Fillmore, many loving Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.
Ami graduated in 2004 from Moorpark High. After high school he traveled to many places, he accomplished his dream of traveling before his was 25-years old. At 18 he moved to Hawaii with his sister and from there he went to Puerto Rico, Tennessee, Virginia, Oklahoma and Utah, making new friends which he still kept in touched with till his last days. Ami will be remembered for the unconditional love he had for animals. He always had his dog Chapo with him, who is missing him dearly. He will be remembered for his big and beautiful heart--he would give the shirt off his back to help those in need, a place to stay, eat or just to take a shower. He will be remembered for his love of knives and home-made weapons that he use to practice with; he was never seen without a knife on his belt. He was a survival freak and was ready for the Big One (earthquake).
Ami was a joker and loved playing tricks on people, loved the outdoors, hiking, camping and fishing, taking pictures of the sunset and moon, cooking, history, kids and Frank Sinatra.
Ami was a donor and his kidneys were successfully recover and transported to save two lives. He was always a giving person till the end.
Amadeus’ celebration of life will be held on November 12th at 11:00am at Perez Funeral home, reception to follow at the Veterans Memorial Building in Fillmore.

Debbie Vierra (1954-2021)

Debbie Vierra, 67 years of age, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2021. A Memorial Mass for Debbie, and for all who mourn her passing, will be celebrated at St Francis of Assisi in Fillmore, on November 6, at 2:00 pm. The Celebration of Her Life will continue after Mass at Sow a Heart Farm with music, food, and friendship. All are welcome!
In 2001, Debbie was preceded in death by her soulmate and the love of her life, Ron Vierra. Debbie was lucky enough to find love a second time and she has always said how grateful she was that God would give her two great loves; her second husband and great love, Ronnie Brooks, passed away in 2020.
Debbie is survived by her son, Billy Vierra of Seattle, Washington; stepdaughter and family, Kellyn (Luis) Flores, precious grandchildren: Nathan, Andrew, and Grace Flores of Santa Clarita, step son, Shane Brooks of Santa Paula; sister in laws Kristi (Kevin) Grudzinski of Duarte, Kathy (Greg) Socia of Santa Paula, nephew Mark Reddick (Nikki) of Neenah, Wisconsin, and nieces Michelle (Sanjeev) Balakrishnan) of Atherton, Ca; Jennifer (Jamie) Schmidt of Ventura, as well as many other beloved family members and lifelong friends.
At 40 years of age, Debbie returned to school pursuing her lifelong passion for law. She opened her own employee advocate law office in 1996, and, opened Santa Clara Valley's Legal Aid Clinic which is still in operation today. She was honored by Ronald George, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of California and served on the California Employment Lawyers Association (CELA)'s board of directors. In 2005 Debbie began working for cPanel while continuing her law practice which included cases against some of the largest employers in the world. After juggling both positions for nine years, in 2014 she closed her law firm to begin a new phase in her career and became the Employee Relations and Employment Legal Counsel for cPanel full time. She retired from cPanel in 2020 to spend more time with her family and friends who were her whole world. Debbie loved to travel and immerse herself in the culture, cook meals for her friends, host parties in her courtyard, and listen (and even dance) to all her favorite music with her girlfriends.
Some people come into your life and see who you can be and then help you to see it, too. Then there are a precious few who go a step further and push you to become that person they see, and, won't quit until you do. Debbie Vierra was that person to so many people. All who knew her, whether it was for one week, one year, or 40 years, are all thinking the same thing: "It just wasn't enough time!"
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Santa Clara Valley Legal Aid Clinic, or, your own favorite charity.

Raphael "Ray" Francis (1926-2021)

Raphael "Ray" Francis Severeid passed away June 16th, 2021, at his son’s home in Murrieta, CA. Born in Des Moines, Iowa on January 14th, 1926, he was 95 years old. Ray was preceded in death by his second wife Virginia E. (nee Foster) Severeid. Ray is dearly missed by the loving family he leaves behind, including his sister, Mary Hsia of Canada, his son, Steve Severeid and daughter, Susanne Van Renterghem; 3 stepdaughters, Nancy (Dave) Probstfeld, Ginny (Doug) O’Dell and Debi Mueller, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Ray was a WWII Navy Veteran. He was an active member of his community, serving as President of the Burbank (CA) YMCA during his working years. After retirement, Ray and Virginia moved to El Dorado Mobile Estates in Fillmore, CA where Ray resided for more than 30 years. Ray and Virginia loved to travel, sometimes simply to see where a road would take them. Together they participated in community events in Fillmore; among them, helping at the Red Cross Food Kitchen in Fillmore six days per week for four weeks during the 1993 earthquake. Ray was also an amazing storyteller, providing detailed accounts of his life beginning with his earliest childhood memories. Ray also assisted many of the elderly residents in El Dorado. He was never too busy to help someone in need. Ray was a quiet man, never boastful or profane; he was a gentle Christian man. He was active in his church, Wayfarers Chapel Lutheran Church of Fillmore. Ray’s pastor, Reverend Leslie Lanier will preside over Ray’s memorial service and interment at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore on Friday, October 22nd, 2021, at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest next to his wife of 27 years, Virginia. While their earthly remains are interred at the cemetery, they both reside in Heaven with our Heavenly Father.

Manuel H. Lovato (1937-2021)

Manuel H. Lovato at age 84 passed away on August 16th, 2021. Born June 3rd, 1937 to Monica and Abriso Lovato. He grew up in Fillmore. Went and joined the Army and was stationed in Korea. He retired from Amron in light pole production, as a Forklifting Operator after 21 years due to illness. He loved all of his siblings and enjoyed the family gatherings. He also loved to help all of his friends, when they asked for help, to party with them. He will rest in Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore, Ca., with his parents, siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins. No services due to Covid Virus.

Stacey R. Richey (1984-2021)

With heavy hearts we share the passing of Stacey Raquel Richey, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, Tia, niece, cousin and friend to many. Surrounded by her loving family, Stacey succumbed 5 years after her cancer diagnosis, having fought a long, hard and very courageous battle against the disease.
Stacey was a life-long Fillmore resident, the youngest daughter born to Jose Luis (Louie) and Pauline Villaseñor. She went to Fillmore schools and graduated from Fillmore High in 2002. Growing up, Stacey was fun-loving, chatty andloved hanging out with her siblings, who always kept an eye on her. She always found someone to be her partner-in-crime - oftentimes it was her dad.She received her pharmacy technician certification and worked as a Pharmacy TechatRite Aid in Fillmore for 19 years. She was always a friendly face to people in town, taking the time to ask how they were and have a conversation. She was a life-long, devout member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Fillmore, and through the local congregation met and married Ivan, her husband of nearly 17 years. Together they had two children, Sophiaand Eric, who were the loves of her life.
Stacey always put her family first. Family commitments and togetherness were her top priority. Whether it was a backyard barbeque, celebrating a wedding, anniversary, or baby shower, going shopping, camping, skiing or to Disneyland (her happy place), it was with family and her closest friends. She was a loving Tia to her nephews and niecesand she was a great mama. She took such joy in raising her kids and proudly shared photos of their life together. She once told her uncle that her kids were always “Instagram ready.” She loved everyday mom life and the special moments, dance and music recitals for Sophia, fun, goofy times with Eric and school award ceremonies for both of them, her little smarties. As she became less able to participate in their daily lives, she always understood what they, too, were going through, and was so proud of how they bravely dealt with her illness. Stacey was alwaysthere for her family as much as she could be and fought hard to experience life with them to the fullest.
Stacey’s faith was of utmost importance to her. It strengthened her resolve to stay strong and keep fighting her battle all these years. She always looked forward to the annual convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Long Beach and before and after the Pandemic hit, she listened to inspirational sermons on her phone, fortifying her faith in Jehovah to face herchallenges and uncertainties head on.
Stacey loved looking her best – getting made up with some new make-up, fresh outfit and cute hairstyle made her day. If it was the fall and winter, she was cheering on her Rams, if it was spring and summer, she was cheering on the SF Giants with her dad, while they teased Eric, who cheers for the Dodgers. Everyone who knew Stacey knew how much she loved to tease and poke fun, but she always did it in her sweetway that just made you feel loved. She had a special way of being a peacemaker, of mending breaks or tears in relationships, and of seeing and bringing out the absolute best in everyone.
She is preceded in death by her father Louie, who now rests with his sweet “Raquel”, her paternal grandparents Herky and Rica Villaseñor, her maternal grandmother Julia Ramirez, her cousins Alex Villaseñor and Adam Hurtado, and her uncle Ralph Villalobos. She is survived by her beloved husband Ivan, daughter Sophia, and son Eric, her mother Pauline Villaseñor, sister Samantha Villaseñor and nephew Daniel Fernandez, brother Louie Villaseñor and sister-in-law Ines Villaseñor, brother Patrick Villaseñor, sister-in-law Amy Villaseñor, niece Mia Villaseñor and nephew Patrick Villaseñor Jr., father-in-law and mother-in-law Steve and Mary Richey, sister- and brother-in-law Erica and Daniel Lawless and nephews Conner and LoganLawless, along with an extended family of many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and members of her congregation, all who will miss her.
While her illness took away many of her choices, Stacey called her own shots as much as she could these last 5 years up to the very end, having let her family know that she wrote her own obituary, which she hid quite well, and we are still trying to locate. In the meantime, we’ll share a few of Stacey’s own words about her family, as this was her wish. To Ivan, her “Papa”: “There will never be enough words to describe my love for you. You have given me and the kid’s unconditional love and a beautiful life. Thank you for loving me almost as much as you love what’s in your garage. (laughing emoji)” To Sophia: “You are the kindest, sweetest, most-caring, most loving, brilliant doesn’t-care-what-anyone-thinks little lady. I love you for being so strong. I love you sister-bear”. To Eric, her “Dad”: “He puts others before himself and is always the first to help or give up his place so someone else has a chance. The loss of my Dad Louie had a huge impact on him, but he still has a heart of gold.Love you forever Dad”. To her brothers, Louie, or Bebothe “best Tio in the world” and Pat, “her first best friend”: “My Rocks - love you guys. I am so proud to call you my brothers”. To her mom Pauline: “I truly don’t know what I would do without her or how I could have gotten through treatments without her. What you don’t know and don’t see is all this amazing woman does for me and my family…there’s not enough words to express my love and gratitude momma”. To her sister Sam: “I love you today, tomorrow and forever. She’s been there for me through the good, the bad and the ugly and she never complains or asks for anything in return. She loves like no other.”
Welove you and miss you Stacey Raquel. Now we can say “We’ve got this”. This is not good-bye, it’s see you later.
Funeral services will be on Sunday, October 3, 2021 at 12:30pm at Perez Family Mortuary, 600 Central Ave. in Fillmore. Reception to follow at Two Rivers Park – 404 Edgewood Drive in Fillmore. If you would like to attend the services via zoom, please contact Samantha @ 805-625-3431 or Ines at 805-625-1204.

Dennis L. Beeghly (1946-2021)

Our beloved big brother passed away after 75 years of life on this good earth. He was a lifetime resident of Fillmore. The only time he was away from home was during his 3 years in the U.S. Army from 1964-1967. He was stationed in Germany only 3 years after the original Berlin wall was built. His job was as a heavy equipment transporter driving 18 wheelers around Europe. Once he returned from his service, he worked as a crane operator for the Ventura County Flood Control until his retirement over 3 decades later.
During his retirement he walked each day several miles around town and into the country until he could not due to hip and knee problems. Yet, this did not stop him from working on his VW projects, going with his brother to off road races to support friends’ racing.
Dennis was the big brother who both his younger brothers looked up to and relied on advice often. From his 2 surviving brothers, we appreciate all those around town who knew Dennis and befriended him. He will be missed by brothers Ron and Sam and spouse, their families consisting of 2 nephews and spouses, 1 niece and spouse, 3 grand nieces and 3 grand nephews.

Bonita “Deana Vasquez” Murillo (1964-2021)

Dearest Friends & Family,
It is with a heavy heart that we announce Bonita “Deana Vasquez” Murillo passed away peacefully at 8:01 in the morning on August 29th, 2021 in Pasadena, Ca after her long battle with Stage 4 Chronic kidney disease and Congestive heart failure.
Deana grew up in Fillmore, Ca along with her sisters and brothers. They attended school events and festivals in town. She attended Fillmore High and made many friends. Anyone who knew her will say she had a contagious smile and a heart of gold. Deana moved to Pasadena, Ca where she would raise her 3 children and became a dedicated member within her church and town.
Bonita “Deana Vasquez” Murillo leaves behind her children Angeline, Sirena, and Jesus Murillo . Son-in-laws Arturo and Jonathan. Grandkids Arturo Jr., Nathan, Sophia, Reyna, Alanna, Simaya, and Lucia. Her Mother Rosa Rios. Sisters Lisa V. Acero, Rose V. Alverdi and brother-in-law Vince Alverdi. Brothers Michael Ramirez and Jesse “Chuchi” Vasquez.
Wake will be held Thursday, September 23rd, 2021 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Rose Hills Memorial Park - Hillside Chapel located at 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601.
Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, September 25th, 2021 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Rose Hills Memorial Park - Hillside Chapel located at 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601. A vehicle procession will follow immediately after to final resting place.

Francis Marvin Atchley (1937-2021)

Francis Marvin Atchley was born on August 13th, 1937 in Fillmore, CA to Edna Ruth (Parker) and Marvin Carl Atchley. He passed away on September 16th, 2021 as a result of a short battle with lung cancer. He tragically lost his mother in 1940 and was raised by his father, a citrus farmer, who ingrained in him the skills for practical living. Marv’s four older sisters doted on their only brother. His childhood on the Shields Ranch in Bardsdale fostered a lifelong love for nature and exploration. Marv graduated from Fillmore High in 1955 and was a perennial class favorite. With a strong engineering mind, Marv attended UC Berkeley where a summer job for Ernest Lawrence, inventor of the cyclotron, led to a position at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory. He retired as the Director of Computer Operations.
In 1968, Marv purchased 20 acres on Spring Mountain in Napa County where he carved out 5 acres for a vineyard. Marv made his own wine for personal use for many decades but later sold his grapes to Correlation.
Marv was a remarkably talented and well-read man who mastered everything he did from viticulture to electronics to music. He devoted over 35 years of service to the performing arts in the Napa Valley; his retirement revolved around the St. Helena Community Band and the St. Helena Choral Society. With his jaunty beret and dark mustache, he cut a dashing figure and was a beloved musician.
Marv married Judith Bramell of Berkeley, CA in 1959. They raised two daughters and divorced in 1978. Marv married Judith Emsley Rochios in 1988 with whom he spent many happy years. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his four sisters: Evelyn, Christine, Mary, and Joann. He is survived by his wife, his daughter Sara Atchley Thomas (Duncan) of St. Helena, his daughter Jennifer Atchley Montoya (Angel) of Las Cruces, NM, grandson Woodrow Montoya, and brother-in-law, Richard Hackney of Fillmore, CA. Services will be held at a later date.

Mary Lou Reyes (1932-2021)

On September 8th, 2021, our Mother and Grandma Mary Lou Reyes passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family. Mary was born on June 12th, 1932 to the late Frank and Sophia Savala in Fillmore, Ca. She was raised in Piru, Ca. and worked for Piru/Fillmore Citrus Association for roughly 20 years. It was there she met her love, Jimmy Reyes and they were married for 40 years. They enjoyed fishing in the Sierras, family gatherings, picking pinones (pine nuts) in Frazier Park, enjoying day trips to Blue Point, visiting friends in Piru, watching old westerns movies, and keeping a clean house. Mary also enjoyed spending time in the kitchen where she was well known for her great food and of course, her delicious bake goods. Mary leaves behind many friends and family members in her home town Piru, and also is now reunited with some of them as well.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Reyes, parents Frank and Sophia Savala, sisters, Connie Lopez and Delia Carbajal, sons, James Jr, and Bruce Reyes. She leaves behind her daughters, Edith Smith-Ponce, and Susie Golson, 9 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren.
Her celebration of life will be held on October 1st, 2021 at 9:00 at San Salvador Mission, 4041 E. Center St, Piru, Ca. Burial will be at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S. Sespe St, Fillmore, Ca.
Lastly our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to her long time doctor Jerold Noah, MD, Ventura Assisted Living and their staff, Jose, RN, Elena, C.N.A., and John, Spiritual Counselor for making her transition to our Heavenly Lord, peaceful.
We love you grandma, may you rest in peace!

Donna Kay Aguirre (1959-2021)

Donna Kay Aguirre passed away on September 9th, 2021 due to complications of COVID-19 in Kingman Arizona. She is survived by her husband Tim Aguirre of 40 years. She is also survived by her sibling’s twin sister Denna (Black), Leon Banta, Karen (Malloy), Darlene (Chantel). She is also survived by her daughter Melanie and son Isaiah. Her grandchildren include Kaitlyn and Sara. Great grandchildren Gabriel and John. Born April 14th, 1959 in Ventura California she attended Fillmore Schools. After high school she married Rick Gross and had one child Melanie. Married Tim Aguirre they moved to Kingman Arizona in 1981. Born in 1982 a son Isaiah. She will be truly missed by all. She loved the outdoors and could have lived in a tent surrounded by pine trees. Donna was a fantastic cook that specialized in Mexican dishes. Donna was a woman with many talents and was taken way too soon. She was her happiest while spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. A celebration of life is being planned time and place have not been decided.

David Ray Jackson (1938-2021)

Peacefully and surrounded by his wife and close family, David Ray Jackson of Fillmore, California passed away on August 27, 2021 at the age of 82.
David was born on September 11, 1938 in Fillmore, California, to Carl Newton and Stella Pauline (Millsap) Jackson in Fillmore, California.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of nearly 16 years, Claudia; his children: Cindy Jackson and Dennis (Mary K) Jackson; step-children: Shelly (Ed) Barr, Kelly (Michael) Conour, Nadine (Tim) Knowles, Susie (Robert) Johnson, Devon Sullivan, Patricia (Dennis) Mead and Christopher (Jennifer) Noe; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren who lovingly called him Poppers; sisters: Elain Lewis Jackson and Carlene Welchel and close friend Monte (Betty) Carpenter.
He will also be dearly missed by his brothers and sisters in Christ and friends at the Santa Paula Freewill Baptist Church, where he humbly served as a Deacon.
He was predeceased by his wife, Anita Darlene Jackson; step-daughter, Laura Jane Noe and sister, Pauline.
He lived with his family in Piru, on his grandfather's farm until 1943. After graduating High School in 1957, David joined the U. S. Army. He took Basic Training at Fort Ord and was sent to Anchorage, Alaska for 28 months. In April of 1961 he was released from active duty and returned home. In October of the same year, he was recalled to Active Duty in Fort Lewis, Washingon. He was released in July 1962. He had a thirty year career with the County of Ventura and went on to enjoy retirement for another thirty plus years.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, September 17, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S. Sespe Street, Fillmore, California.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 18th at 11:00am at the Santa Paula Freewill Baptist Church, 406 Acacia Road, Santa Paula, California.
Memorial Donations may be made in the name of David Ray Jackson to the Shriner's Hospitals for Children, Attn: Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607
The family wishes to end a special thank you to the staff at the Santa Paula VCMC Hospital and the Coastal View Healthcare Center for their care and compassion.

Ninfa Zepeda Alday (1946-2021)

Ninfa Zepeda Alday, age 75, passed away Friday, August 27, 2021. She was born January 5, 1946 in Saltillo, Mx to Ernesto and Maria Alday. Ninfa's siblings are Elizabeth Chavez, Tim Alday, Maria Gonzalez, Frank Alday, and Violet Alday.
In her early years, Ninfa arrived in the U.S. at the age of 15. Ninfa was always one to lend a helping hand to others. Ninfa was the true definition of a humanitarian and had the opportunity to continue to practice for over 30 years as a property manager for Cabrillo Economic Development at Rancho Sespe Apartments in Fillmore and Montgomery Oaks Apartments in Ojai. She was a manager for people of low income and farm worker families. Throughout her working years and even after retirement, Ninfa was shown love and appreciation by her residents. She was highly recognized as an inspiration.
Ninfa is survived by her husband, Jaime Zepeda; daughter and son-in-law, Marizol Zepeda and Miguel Iniguez; and granddaughter, Itzelle Iniguez; and siblings Liz, Maria, Frank, and Violet. She is preceeded in death by her parents Ernesto and Maria Alday, brother Tim Alday and her newborn son Francisco Zepeda.
Ninfa was known to be loving and supportive, but most of all, funny and a jokester! She loved to spend time with family and her favorite hobby was going to the casino. Ninfa loved to be called "Abuelita" by her grand-daughter who ended up being the best of best friends!
Ninfa will be missed and forever in our hearts.
Services will be held at Perez Family Funeral Home Thursday, September 9th, 2021 (3:00pm – 9:00pm); mass on Friday, September 10th at 10:00 a.m. Interment at Barsdale Cemetery. Then we are holding a celebration of life at 302 B Street Fillmore, Ca 93015.

Carolee Battaglia (1968-2021)

Carolee is a loving wife, mother, daughter and sister who left us too early. She earned her wings August 30th and joined her friends and family in heaven. She will be watching down upon us. Carolee is survived by her husband Mike, her son Bradley, father Gerry Mathews, mother Sharon (McIntosh) Mathews, brother Dan Mathews (wife Kimberly), Ron Mathews (wife Donna), sister-in-law Debbie Evans (husband Jack), brother-in-law Frank Battaglia (wife Linda), 6 nephews, 3 nieces and 2 great nieces.
Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in California, Maryland on September 4, 2021 and in Fillmore, California on September 21, 2021 and burial will follow at Eternal Valley, Newhall California.
Services on September 21, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Southern California, Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints
Zoom Link for Service: To Be Provided Later
1017 1st Street, Fillmore, California 93015
10:00 - 10:45 visitation
11:00 - services
Light refreshments and memory sharing following services.
Interment at Eternal Valley
23287 N. Sierra Highway, Newhall, California 91321
September 21, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers (Carolee thought they were always a waste), please send donations to A Community that Share (ACTS), P.O. Box 54, Bushwood, MD 20618; Hospice of St. Mary’s, P.O. Box 530, Leonardtown, MD 20650; or American Cancer Society, https://donate3.cancer.org.
Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com
All arrangements have been made at Brinsfield Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., Charlotte Hall, MD.

Raymond Maitland Smith (1923-2021)

Raymond Maitland Smith, affectionately known to his wife, family and friends as “Honey”, Dad, Ray, Smitty, and Papaw, passed away peacefully at his home and orange ranch in Reedley, CA on July 12, 2021. Ray was 98 years young.
Ray was born on January 3, 1923 in Brea, CA to the parents of Maitland and Marie Smith and grew up in Orange County, where during his teen-age years, he met the love of his life, Laura Nadine Henning (Smith), who had just recently moved to California, arriving from Kansas. Just shy of Nadine graduating from high school, Ray and Nadine snuck off to Arizona and eloped, starting an adventurous life together, producing four children and a loving marriage that would last nearly 68 years.
Ray Smith was a World War II veteran, having served in the Navy on the attack transport vessel, the U.S.S. Hendry (APA-118) in 1944 and 1945. After completing his service Ray returned to Orange County and along with his wife Nadine, raised their family there until 1957. They moved the family to Atlanta, Georgia when Ray was transferred to the South, working as a regional manager for Hunt Foods. However, ranching was always his first love career-wise, having studied Agriculture at college. In the early 60’s, he gave up his job and moved the family back to California, settling in Fillmore, where he, his brother and father established a citrus ranch in Bardsdale. From there, Ray expanded his orange grove empire to Piru, CA, and eventually relocated to central California, owning and operating ranches in San Luis Obispo, Lindsay, Orange Cove and most recently, Reedley, CA, where he continued to ranch well into his 90’s. Ray also spent several years raising and training horses, often competing alongside Nadine in local riding competitions.
When able to take a break from the ranches, Ray and Nadine enjoyed to travel with close friends but mostly loved spending time with their still-to-this-day, ever growing family. Whether it be attending grandkids’ and great-grandkids’ sporting events or hosting family for lake vacations or holiday home visits, family gatherings always brought a bright smile to Ray’s face. Ray leaves his four children, Sharon (Johnnie) Ferguson of Paso Robles, CA; Brent (Linda) Smith of Arroyo Grande, CA; Denise (Steve) Weeks of Arroyo Grande, CA; and Lori (Greg) Nunez of Fillmore, CA. Ray loved and adored his 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren (with 2 more due very soon!) and 3 great-great grandchildren – all too many to name J.
Ray Smith was preceded in death by his wife Nadine Smith, parents Maitland and Marie Smith, his brother Robert Smith, and great-great granddaughter Paisley Rolff.
Love ya, Dad/Papaw…give Mom/Nana a huge hug for us all!!!

Gloria Elena Ponce (1952-2021) & Jose Luis Ponce (1949-2021)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved parents, sister and brother, aunt and uncle, grandparents, great grandparents Gloria Elena Ponce & Jose Luis Ponce. Gloria Elena Ponce, 69, born January 15th, 1952 in Mexicali B.C, Mexico to Francisca Barajas & BuenaVentura Lopez, went to be with the lord on Wednesday, July 28th,2021. Jose Luis Ponce, 72, born April 26th, 1949 in Tijuana B.C, Mexico to Ramon Ponce & Sara Ponce, passed away 19 days after his wife on August 16th, 2021. Gloria & Jose were married in the year of 1975, they would have celebrated 46 years of marriage this coming August 23rd. Both Gloria & Jose were long time residents of Fillmore. They were known fondly by their family as Nana and Tata.
Gloria will be remembered for her unconditional love and loving care for others. She always welcomed everyone with open arms and always put her family before herself. Her passion was caring for all her grandchildren. Gloria loves music and dancing. She spent weekends shopping with her daughter and grandkids.
Jose will be remembered for the times he loved to spend with his family, where he loved laughing and telling stories. He always cared for animals and loved his 5 pets. Jose would always be seen riding his bike around Fillmore and walking his dogs. Jose had a love for classic cars and he shared that love for cars with his sons.
Gloria & Jose enjoyed spending time with their family and adored their grandchildren. Gloria & Jose were the heart and soul of our family, and will forever be in our hearts.
Gloria & Jose survive by their sons- Gerardo (Erika), Esteban (Veronica), Jose, daughter- Monica (Raul), grandchildren- Jose Arturo, Serena (Arthur), Adam, Syenna, Mia, Anabel, Nayeli, great grandchildren- Aubhree, Ila, Olivia, Gloria’s 7 siblings & Jose’s 9 siblings, as well as their many nieces & nephews. Gloria & Jose will be missed everyday of our lives.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 27th, 2021, a rosary will be recited at 9:30 am, mass at 10:00 am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 Ventura Street in Fillmore, CA. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, Fillmore, CA. Our family thanks those who visited and prayed for Gloria, Jose and the family during this difficult time.

Pedro Carrillo Munoz (1926-2021)

On Tuesday, July 27, 2021, Pedro Carrillo Munoz, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away at age 94 in Fillmore, California.
Pedro was born on November 13, 1926, in Chalchisco de Arriba, Zacatecas to Jose and Ma. Encarnación Carrillo Munoz. On December 1, 1965, he married the love of his life, Petra Munoz in Jalpa, Zacatecas, and celebrated 55 years of marriage.
They were blessed with three children, Jose Pedro Munoz, Olga Herrera Munoz, and Alma Angelica Rodriguez.
Pedro first came to the United States in 1947, where he worked in Texas, where he worked in agriculture. He lived and worked in Texas, Illinois, and throughout California, before settling in Fillmore in 1963. He and his family lived in Rancho La Campana until 1990. Pedro was also involved in the Migrant Education Program; his involvement led him to advocate at the county, state, and federal level, where he represented the migrant parents and children of California. He attended morning mass six days a week, followed by a coffee club at McDonald’s with his friends for numerous years, where they talked about every subject under the sun and received table service from the employees who knew and loved them.
Pedro’s greatest passion was his family. He loved unconditionally and was always there to help his children and grandchildren in any way he could. He helped with countless drop-offs and pick-ups, would go to the grocery store multiple times a day to buy any and everything his wife needed, and attended every sporting and school event he could.
He will be remembered by his detailed stories, driving around town on his red scooter, and his love for coffee and sweets. He was blessed to pass surrounded by his family in his favorite place in the world, his home.
He is survived by his wife, Petra Munoz, his children- Jose Pedro Munoz (m. Diane Munoz), Olga Herrera Munoz, and Alma Rodriguez (m. Tomas Rodriguez), grandchildren- Martin Herrera, Marco Herrera, Brianna Rodriguez, Valery Rodriguez, Venisa Rodriguez, Isaac Rodriguez, and Roman Munoz, and great-grandchildren- Rayleen Herrera, Aubrey Herrera, Nevaeh Herrera, Roman Herrera, Gianna Herrera, Cartel Herrera, and Gemma Herrera.
Visitation will be held from 6:00pm to 9:00pm on Monday, August 9th, 2021 at Faith Community Church, 355 D Street in Fillmore, California. A Rosary will be recited at 9:30am on Tuesday, August 10, 2021 with a Funeral Mass to begin at 10:00am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 Ventura Street in Fillmore, California. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 South Sespe Street in Fillmore, California.
To sign the family's online guestbook, share stories and post pictures please visit our website www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Pedro's name located in Recent Obituaries.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated Robert Rey García Jr Funeral Services, Santa Paula, CA 805.229.7054

Dale Palmer (1947-2021)

In Loving Memory, Dale Palmer Passed away peacefully in Sallisaw, Oklahoma on July, 7th 2021 after battling cancer since 2016.
He was born November 5th 1947 in Bell Garden, Ca to the parents of Joyce Muriel (Paulsen) Palmer and Frank Dale Palmer of Ventura County who are also laid to rest.
Dale attended school in Fillmore, Calif. then later in years he went into oil field work as a driller. Then moved onto work for Hansen’s Pest Control. Later in life, Dale finally resided in Mooreland, OK. Then moved on to Sallisaw, OK to retire, to where he could do some good fishing along the Arkansas River with his fishing partner Jerrel Mc Glothlin of Sallisaw, OK. Oh how he loved to ocean fish with his brother Bobby with every opportunity that came along for to go.
Dale is Survived by his 2 brothers Bobby Palmer of Fillmore and Gary Palmer of Fillmore., Daughter Da Lena Palmer of San Francisco, Son Kenny Palmer of Missouri, and Gary Dale of Woodward, OK. Along with Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and aunts from all around.
Cremation will take place at Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, OK. Followed by the spreading of the ashes as he desired in life.

Evelynn Ybarra Grosfield (1950-2021)

Evelynn Joyce Ybarra was born November 13, 1950 in Santa Paula, California to Marcelino “Woody”, and Minnie Ybarra. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Fillmore, CA where they welcomed another daughter, Barbara Ybarra, and then a son, Robert Ybarra.
Evie was raised in Fillmore, attending elementary school all the way through high school where she graduated in 1968. Her senior year of high school she competed and won Miss Fillmore Princess, then went on to compete for Ventura County in October 1968.
Evie then attended Ventura Community College with goals of attending USCB and becoming a teacher. It was at Ventura College, in English class where Evie met her future husband, Robert Grosfield. After graduating from Ventura College, she completed her education at UCSB with a major in English. Evie then began her teaching career at San Cayetano elementary school in Fillmore as a 2nd grade teacher. This was the beginning of a long, and dedicated career as a bilingual teacher for children from elementary school, junior high school, and high school.
A few years later, on August 24th 1974, Evelynn and Robert Grosfield married in Fillmore, CA. They moved to Ventura, and bought their house on Linda Vista Ave, which would be their home until it was lost in the Thomas Fire in December of 2017. Despite this tragedy, Evie managed to maintain a positive outlook and was just grateful they survived the fire together.
In 1979 Robert and Evie welcomed their daughter, Elizabeth Grosfield and 3 years later, their son Robert Grosfield Jr. Evie was a doting mother over her 2 children, always the cheerleader saying, “You can do anything!” She was constantly praising and building up her kids, and they had no doubt that she loved them. There are many fond memories of staying up late to watch movies, cooking together, and enjoying each other’s company. In 2002 Evie became a grandma for the first time, welcoming 4 grandchildren in total over the years. Michael, Christopher, Conner and Claire have many memories of warmth and love shown to them by their Grandma Evie.
Evie had a strong connection to family, and loved to be with her mom, Minnie, her sister, Barbara, and brother Robert who also lived in Ventura. Evie loved going to the pool with family. They had many BBQ’s and dinners together. There were many evenings spent at her mom’s house with the whole family together. She loved her 3 nephews, and their 4 children. It brought her so much joy to be able to give gifts and see the children grow.
As a loving mother and busy teacher, she always found time for other projects, especially for her students and their education. She hosted a radio show on Ventura’s local radio station which focused on bringing awareness to issues that children faced in education, as well as interviewing authors, and a variety of different guests. After retiring as a teacher, she became an author of local history books; she authored 5 books and co-authored another one. She spent many hours researching, interviewing and traveling around the area with her husband, Robert or son Robert Jr., and her cousin, Laura to take pictures of local sights for her books.
In February of 2019, Evie was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, but despite cancer being tough to battle, Evie’s smile was tougher. She never let the diagnosis dim the bright light that she showed the world. Her final years were spent with Robert, her faithful husband and caretaker, at her side. She even managed to publish 2 more books while undergoing treatments, and was working on another. Evelynn was joyful, cute, funny and beautiful. She loved her family, and she loved living life in her own style. She was brave, and talented and always had a good time. She will be missed by many who truly loved her.

Gregorio “Gollo” Alday (1929-2021)

Our Dad, Gregorio Alday was born May 25, 1929 in Aurora Coahuila Mexico and went home with the Lord July 1, 2021. Our Dad came to the U.S. in the 1950’s and lived in Fillmore for over 60 years. Our Dad loved music; he played the saxophone since his early teenage years. He enjoyed the outdoors, biking, hiking and having a few drinks. He loved to spend time with family and enjoying good times. Dad is survived by Mom, Paula Alday and his children, Lupe Alday-Acero, Rafael Alday and Fidel Alday and grand children ( Vanessa, Jake and Josh Acero; Gerardo and Alex Alday and Giovanni Alday). He is also survived by two beautiful great-grandchildren whom he adored with all his heart Nate and Sophie Alday. Dad will be missed every day of our lives; our hearts are filled with many wonderful memories. Dad will like to be remembered with happiness and joy! Services will be held at Perez Family Funeral Home Sunday, July 25, 2021 (4:00 – 8:00); mass on Monday, July 26th at 10:00 a.m. We are holding a celebration of life at 1:30 p.m. July 26th (824 Wileman St.).

Epimenia S. (“Penny”) Cardona (1926-2021)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister and aunt, Penny Cardona, who passed away earlier this year on January 19, 2021. Penny was born in Fillmore on March 24, 1926 to Marcos & Gregoria Cardona. Penny worked in various different packing houses in Fillmore throughout her earlier years. Penny also spent many years successfully selling Studio Girl Cosmetics in the 1960s and 70s.In her spare time, Penny loved to bake and this eventually became one of her passions. She loved baking for her family members and sometimeswould have cupcake parties for her nieces and nephews and some of the neighborhood kids. She often times would create her own baking recipes. Christmas was Penny’s favorite time of year and she made sure to bake plenty of cookies and holiday treats for every member of her family. Everyone always looked forward to her delicious treats. In addition to her love for baking, especially around the holidays, she always made sure that she had a big Christmas tree, which she beautifullyand meticulously decorated every year. She put so much timeand effort into carefully placing each ornament on her tree and it meant so much to her to make sure that her tree, along with all the other Christmas decorations throughout the house, were perfectly placed so that her family could enjoy them throughout the season. Penny was a very talented and creative person and it came through in many ways in everything that she did and, she did them all for her family to enjoy. While she is truly missed by her family, she has left behind beautiful memories for all to cherish and remember her by.
Penny was preceded in death by both her parents, Marcos & Gregoria Cardona, sisters, Lupe Dominguez, Elsie Cardona and Monica Castro. She is survived by sisters, Jenny Herrera and Amelia Mulberry, her brother Tino Cardona, and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.