Graciela Carrillo

Graciela Carrillo Chavez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by her family. Graciela was born in Veracruz, Mexico, the daughter of Alberto Chavez and Maria Lilia DeLeon. She was the third of nine children. She deeply loved her brothers-Abrahan, Juan, Cipriano, and Gerardo Chavez-and her sisters-Isabel, Nora, Sofia, and Julia. She is survived by her brother, Luis Chavez. Graciela spent her childhood in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, where she was raised by her grandmother, Sofia "Mama Chofa" Hernandez De Leon. At the age of 15, she immigrated to the United States and settled in Cutler, California, where she began working as a tomato picker. Years later, amidst the tomato fields, she met her future husband, Victor Carrillo. After marrying in 1975, Graciela and Victor became the proud parents of four children: Victoria Medina (married to Esteban Medina), Cristobal Carrillo (married to Catherine Carrillo), Catalina Baiza (married to Edward Baiza), and Cecilia Carrillo. They were also blessed with seven grandchildren: Max Medina, Ace Medina, Mia Medina, Sebastian Carrillo, Aurora Baiza, Eva Carrillo, and Luna Baiza. Graciela cherished her grandchildren and cared for them all. She adored the flowers and plants in her garden and frequently gave small plants as gifts to her friends and loved ones. Graciela was also an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cutler, California, participating in the Guadalupanas, the Evangelization Group, Nocturnal Adoration, and the Marriage Encounter ministry. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her dearly. A viewing will be held on March 7, 2026, at 3:30 PM at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cutler, California. Following the viewing, the Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m., a vigil will be held at 5:00 p.m., and Mass will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cutler, California, on March 8, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., followed by burial rites at 1:00 p.m. at Smith Mountain Cemetery in Dinuba, California. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Graciela Carrillo

May 18, 1946 - March 22, 2026