Maria Nava Mendoza

Maria Nava Mendoza Mom passed away peacefully in her home on November 7th, 2021 at the age of 99 years. She was born on February 10th, 1922, in San Gabriel, California, to her parents, Pedro and Francisca Nava. At the age of 13 years she was not able to continue with her education because she had to assume the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings when her mother passed away at the age of 35, due to tuberculosis. Mother worked many jobs during her lifetime. She worked in the fields and restaurants. her final job was as a teacher's aide at Crowley Elementary School for 24 years. It was a job that she enjoyed dearly. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for her family. Her specialties were her tamales, chicken mole, and tortillas, just to name a few. There wasn't anything mom could not cook. Her hobbies were crocheting, embroidery and gardening. She planted beautiful sweet peas and many other flowers. She also planted a vegetable garden. She was known for her daily walks around the neighborhood and in Visalia. She was known to carry a big stick with her when she went on her walks. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved dancing with them and helping them with their homework. She is preceded in death by her parents, Pedro and Francisca Nava, brothers Edward, Pete, Adolph, and Frank Nava. Her sisters Herlinda Monreal, and Elena Mendoza. Her husband Rosendo Mendoza and daughters Rosemary Mendoza and Lydia Mendoza. And also many sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. She leaves behind her daughters Velia Mendoza and Margaret Castrillo. 6 grandchildren, Steven (Cris) Mendoza, Dr. Albert (Mari) Mendoza, Dr. Ramon (Mandi) Mendoza, Pauline (Jose) Ramirez, Lisa (Vincent) Maciel and Sergio Frausto. She also leaves behind 5 great-grandchildren, Jose Ramirez Jr, Jimena Ramirez, Gabriel Ramirez, Isaac Maciel, Matthew Maciel. Her sister-in-law Rosie Nava and many nieces and nephews. Mom you will be missed dearly, and even though you are gone, you will live in our hearts forever. Graveside services will be held 12 PM Monday, November 29th, 2021 at Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. In lieu of flowers, please donate to educational charity of choice. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Maria Nava Mendoza

February 10, 1922 - November 7, 2021