Jorge Antonio “Cokie” Negrete (1989-2022)

Jorge Antonio “Cokie” Negrete passed away on Friday, September 16, 2022 at the young age of 33. He was born in Ojai, Ca on January 26, 1989. He is preceded in death by his grandfather Jose Negrete.
He is survived by his parents, Jorge Negrete and Rosa Maria Montelongo. His two beloved daughters Kayla Renea and Harper Teressa. His sister Maria Elena Vargas, brothers Samuel Negrete and Ricardo Negrete.
Cokie, as many knew him was kind, generous, and had a great sense of humor. He had a very big heart and left an imprint in many people’s lives.
In lieu of flowers, please be kind to someone, call a friend or relative you haven’t reach out to recently, visit a nursing home resident, Forgive someone.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Fillmore Veterans Memorial Building-511 2nd St. Fillmore, Ca. from 2:00 pm -8:00 pm Rosary and Mass will be on Wednesday, October 5th 2022 9:30 am at Saint Francis of Assisi Church 1048 Ventura St., Fillmore, Ca. Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
To sign the family's online guest book please visit our website:www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and locate Jorge's name in "Recent Obituaries". Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, SANTA PAULA, CA 805.229.7054.

Robert Dennis Berrington (1947-2022)

On September 11, 2022, Robert Dennis Berrington, 75, son of Albert and Ethel Berrington, passed away of natural causes in Chowchilla, California.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents and older brother, Donald Larry Berrington.
Robert was a resident of Leesburg, Florida for the past 11 years and is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 57 years, Cheryl.
Robert was born and raised on the family ranch in Fillmore, California. He was a resident of Ventura County until moving to Florida. After graduating high school, he became a self-employed welder. After 27 years on that career path, he changed directions and became a structural inspector. He continued with this career up to the time of his death.
He tried the retired life twice but missed the activity and friends he made on the construction site.
Robert had many hobbies and interests through the years, He liked scuba diving, motorcycles, boating and fishing, flying, and taking his dog Katie for walks around the ranch.
He leaves behind a rich legacy that includes daughter Sandra, son John and his wife Stacey, grandchildren Austin and his wife Alex, Chris, Kendall, Ryan, great-grandchildren Jason, Hayden, Bristol and Braxton, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He passed from this life doing what he loved and will be missed by all of us. A service will be held for friends and family at Bardsdale Cemetery on Tuesday, September 27th, at 10:00 AM.

Rundle Lekeith Rhodes (1967-2022)

On Friday, September 9, 2022, Rundle Lekeith Rhodes transitioned into the glorious presence of the Lord. Rundle was born on May 8, 1967.
He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age at Second New Hope MB Church where he served as an usher. Later he joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Oxnard under the leadership of Bishop B. A. Huggins.
He married Carla on September 24, 1994. Rundle graduated from Moorpark college in 1992. He worked as a produce clerk at Vons for over 27 years. Rundle enjoyed the simple pleasures of watching his favorite teams, San Francisco 49ers and New York Mets. He enjoyed playing softball, football and beating his friends in poker. His smile would light up a room and it was very contagious. Rundle was a great dancer and loved to be silly with his kids. One of his favorite pastimes was to goof around and tease his closest family and friends. Rundle was a wonderful cook. He made the best barbeque ribs, steaks, homemade macaroni and cheese, black eye peas and cornbread.
Rundle was preceded in death by his father Jerry Williams and his brother Christopher Williams. He leaves to cherish his memories with his wife, Carla Rhodes; children Jalen, Anissa, and Amaya Rhodes; mother, Clotea Rhodes; brothers Darrel Williams (Janice) and Jerry Williams, Jr, and sister Tosha Tyson (Tony); Special Aunt; and Uncle, Marie & Jimmy Smith; stepmother Jonnie Williams; special cousin Vivian Edison and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and lots of friends.
Funeral Services are on Thursday, September 22, 2022, at Simply Church, 415 Pearson Road, Port Hueneme, CA. Viewing from 10:00 am to 11:45 am and funeral services begin at 12:00-1:30 pm.

Steve C. Crawford (1953-2022)

Steve Crawford, 69, of Fillmore passed away on Saturday, August 20th, 2022, at his residence with his lovely wife, Jerri, by his side.
Steve was born in Ventura, California on April 23rd, 1953, and lived all his life in Santa Paula and Fillmore.
Steve worked a majority of his life at the family business, Valley Ford Tractor, that his father Don started in 1963. He also dedicated 24 years of his life to volunteering at the Fillmore Fire Department as an EMT, engineer, and captain. Steve was also a long time member of the Fillmore Rotary Club. Steve then ran “the shop” after his fathers passing in 2004 until his retirement on May 5, 2017.
After his retirement he invested his time in managing his avocado ranch, golfing, working on his cobra, and enjoying NASCAR.
Steve is proceeded in death by parents Don (2004) and Peggy (1986) along with his aunt and uncle, Helen and Gene Drew. Steve is survived by his wife Jerri, his son Eric and wife Carina Crawford, grandchildren Kasey and Dylan Crawford, his brother Mike Crawford, his uncle Jon Crawford, his aunt Dorothy Reed, his step mother Jeanette Crawford, sister in law Marry Shepherd, brother in law Bill and wife Linda Root, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 30th, at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Jose Negrete Contreras (1940-2022)

Jose Negrete Contreras age 81, of Fillmore passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loved ones on August 20th, 2022. He was born August 23rd, 1940 in San Juan Palmira, Michoacan, Mexico to Francisco Negrete and Maria Del Refugio Contreras. He has 7 siblings. He is preceded in death by his two sons Julio Cesar and Juan Manuel Negrete. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Maria Elena Castaneda, his 7 children: Arnoldo, Jorge, Jose Luis, Francisco, Patricia. He is also survived by his 23 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be at Fillmore Veterans Memorial Building- 511 2nd Street Fillmore, Ca from 7p.m. to 10:30p.m. Funeral Services are under the direction of Robert Rey Garcia Jr., Funeral Services- Santa Paula, Ca.

Theresa Gurrola (1930-2022)

Theresa Gurrola, age 92, passed away on August 1st, 2022. She arrived into this world on May 17th, 1930 born to Jesus and Frances Vasquez in Los Angeles, California.
Theresa spent her youth in Casa Blanca (Riverside, California) until she graduated from Riverside Polytechnic High School. Her family moved to Santa Paula, California in 1949. She met our father, Camilo Gurrola shortly after and they married in November 1952 residing in Fillmore.
Theresa was a homemaker, until her three children were out on their own. Then she began working at Broadway, then after as a teachers aide at Piru Elementary School. Theresa’s longest job was helping her daughter Anna Marie Gurrola, a CPA, in Fillmore as an office manager.
Our mother was diagnosed with a rare Carcinoid Tumor in October 1994. Her cancer doctor gave a timeline of five years to live, but our mother’s determination, courage, and love of God stopped the progression of the tumor.
Theresa is survived by her children Anna Marie Gurrola, Gloria Irene Mendez, and Lawrence Daniel Gurrola. She is also survived by her grandchildren Christine Hernandez, Naomi Qualls, Daniel and Anthony Mendez, and Danielle Gurrola. In addition, she is survived by her 9 great grandchildren with a 10th due in February 2023 and two great great grandsons.
Her favorite pastimes were playing Bingo, Loteria, and any chance to go to a casino. She loved reading, shopping, crossword puzzles, and most of all spending time with family. Family was very important to her and we will all miss her deeply.
Funeral Services are on Tuesday, August 16th, 2022 at St Francis of Assisi in Fillmore with 9:30 a.m. Rosary and 10:00 a.m. Mass. Burial is immediately after at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Garet David Godfrey (1966-2022)

On July 12th, 2022, Garet David Godfrey passed unexpectedly and peacefully at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Although we are heartbroken, it brings us comfort knowing that he has been reunited with his mother, Linda Godfrey whom he never stopped longing for.
Garet was born on October 25th, 1966, in Santa Paula, California to Linda Godfrey and Ron Godfrey. He immediately brought love and joy into the lives of his parents and family. Some folks affect countless people in their lifetime, and Garet was one of them. We were all blessed with his genuine kindness, generosity and welcoming spirit.
Garet was an avid trap shooter and won many junior competitions. He volunteered for Ventura County Search & Rescue and had a profound love for hunting and fishing. His professional career consisted of working with the family business farming the lands of Fillmore and Piru with his father, his idol, his best friend, Ron Godfrey and wouldn't be caught anywhere without his sidekick, Bugdog.
Garet was preceded in death by his mother Linda, maternal grandparents Dorothy and Pat Wilson and paternal grandparents Vena and Vancel Godfrey. He is survived by his wife Teresa, daughter Hunter, son Colton, father Ron, Stepmother Debbie, "brother from another mother" Patrick, sister Shannon and brother-in-law Dustin "Blister", brother Tim, niece Calista, great nephew Jasper, uncle and cousins. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Friends and family are invited to a "Celebration of Life" on Saturday, August 20th at 2:00 p.m. at Britt Park, located at 3824 Guiberson Road near Piru. Food will be served between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Larry Jack Cassidy (1981-2022)

Lifelong resident of Fillmore, Larry Jack Cassidy, sadly passed away on July 12, 2022, at the young age of 40. He was born on July 20, 1981. He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1999. He is survived by his parents, Janna and Kelly Cassidy, his siblings, Lacey Hinson and Cody Gilbert Cassidy, and his 10 year old son, Larson Komatsubara Cassidy, as well as other extended family.
He was a wonderful father, a fun uncle, and a well-loved member of the community here in Fillmore. For many years, he participated in The Great Cycle Challenge to raise money for children’s cancer research as well as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. He was often seen pedaling his bike all over town in his efforts to raise as much money as possible each year. It was so commendable.
Larry was kind, generous, creative, and had a great sense of humor. He had a very big heart. He had a gentle sensitive spirit. He loved nature and spending time outdoors hiking, riding his bike, and hunting for cool rocks. He was an animal lover who always had several rescued pets. He was a collector of many things including comic books, rocks and Legos.
If you were lucky enough to have known Larry, you understand this loss is huge. If you never knew Larry, you missed out on a special person who we will all miss dearly. He touched this earth and left an imprint. Larry will be buried at the Bardsdale Cemetery alongside his grandparents, Larry and Jacqueline Cassidy. The funeral will be held Friday, August 5th at 10am.

James Edward Arundell (1941-2022)

James Edward Arundell, 80, passed away peacefully on July 14th surrounded by family in the home he built in Fillmore, California. Jim was born in Oxnard on October 20, 1941, to Glenn and Jane Arundell. He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1959, attended Ventura College, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Upon returning to Fillmore, Jim was married to Diane Southwick on August 5, 1967, in the Fillmore Presbyterian Church. Jim and Diane were both lifelong residents of Fillmore and were married just shy of 55 years. They both earned their teaching credentials and taught side-by-side for 30 years.
Jim was a standout football, basketball, and baseball player at Fillmore High School and was later inducted into the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame. He garnered the nickname “Thumper,” for his quickness and big feet. After a season of football at Ventura College, Jim enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving as an aircraft avionics technician in Jacksonville, Florida and Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Upon discharge from active duty, he worked as a surveyor while earning his teaching credential from California State Northridge. After earning his bachelor’s degree in physical education, he landed a job as a teacher at Piru Elementary School where he taught 5th grade in the same storied classroom for over 30 years. Jim also served as the school’s drama teacher, directing performances of several highly anticipated school plays that were loved by the faculty, parents, and students. During his early years of teaching, he coached Fillmore High girls basketball and assistant coached Fillmore High boys baseball and basketball. Upon starting a school farm at Piru School, Jim was recognized and featured in an interview by KNBC LA local news for being a leader in innovation, dedicated to keeping kids outdoors and teaching them about agriculture, gardening, and caring for livestock. After retiring in 2002, Jim became a full-time grandfather, rancher, mentor, coach, and Dodger fan who could always be found riding a tractor in the sunshine through his avocado orchards in Fillmore.
Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, teacher and coach. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Diane; daughter Jamie and son-in-law, Leroy; daughter Julie and son-in-law, Ian; sister Judy and brother-in-law, Mike; brother Oz and sister-in-law, Barb; sister-in-law Barbara; brother-in-law Gary and sister-in-law, Susan; grandchildren Nohelani, James, Leah, Jackson, and Julianne; his nieces and nephews and great-grandchildren. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Jane; stepmother, Ellen; and his brother, John.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Jim’s life on Friday, August 12, at 10:00 am at the Bardsdale Cemetery, located at 698 S. Sespe St in Fillmore. A “Celebration of Life” reception will follow at Jamie & Leroy’s residence at 1520 Oak Ave in Fillmore.

LaRoyce Simpson Hicks (1929-2022)

LaRoyceUgene Simpson opened her eyes to the light of the world on November 12, 1929. LaRoyce Simpson Hicks opened her eyes to the light of Heaven on July 1, 2022, joining her husband, family, and friends who went before.
After growing up during the Depression and WWII, she began a life teaching in public school in 1951. On her very first day, she lit the kitchen incinerator in her kitchen in her newlyweds’ apartment, blowing trash all over the ceiling, wall, and her new dress. Sigh…
In 1950 or thereabouts, she met this guy with flaming red hair, on a blind date arranged by a friend, and decided there and then that he was “The One.” Proudly, she cooked “40 Clove Chicken” early on in their marriage, although she thought a “clove of garlic” was the whole thing. The neighborhood enjoyed the redolence of garlic for days…
She LOVED teaching and was good it. In addition to her public school work, she also taught Sunday School and an afternoon program called Good News Club.
A devout Christian her entire life, she taught Good News Club, Mailbox Club, and the adult-oriented Crossroads Prison Ministry all her life. She traveled the world after being widowed, as far away as Thailand and West Africa, in her service to others.
When encroaching age left her unable to travel physically, she doubled down on her written and correspondence work, becoming active in the Wycliffe Bible Translating Society, assisting in many areas.
She was also widely known for her total love of working in her gardens and orchards, running an adorable stand called “Grandma’s Garden” as many as THREE days a week!
This brief writing absolutely cannot express the sheer magnitude of a large life splendidly livedor convey the open-armed love with which she approached the world.
She leaves her three sons, Lloyd, Larry, and Lynn, her daughter-in-law Alicia, and her grandchildren Soleil and Freeman, along with too many other family and friends to county.
Rest in Power, Mom.
Memorial service will be held August 6th, from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at Faith Community Church, 355 D St., Fillmore, CA 93015.

Urbano Zavala Gonzalez (1929-2022)

Urbano Zavala Gonzalez, age 93, passed away on June 13, 2022 in Morgan Hill, CA. Urbano was born in Abasolo, Guanajuato, Mexico on May 31, 1929. He is survived by his children Silvia Lucero, Leticia Gonzalez-Ponce, Rosalba Viera, Ricardo Gonzalez, and Lucila Gonzalez and was predeceased by his wife, Elisa Gonzalez, in 2016 and his son, Joel Gonzalez, who passed away in 1979.
A visitation for Urbano will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2022 from 8am to 8:30am at Funeraria Del Angel Santa Paula. A Holy rosary service is set to be recited at St Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore at 9:30am and funeral services at 10am. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery since the family had lived in the Piru-Fillmore area for 39 years. All of the children are Fillmore High School graduates.

Beverly Jean Brisby (1928-2022)

Beverly Jean Brisby, 94, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2022 in Camarillo, CA. She was a resident at Bernadette Home Care, where she was cared for lovingly over the past four years.
Beverly Jean Payne was born in San Bernadino, California on March 23, 1928. She was the youngest of ten children born to James Luther Payne and Emily Henrietta Brandes. She graduated from Redlands High School in 1946. She met her husband William Lee Brisby while attending Compton College and they married in September 1949. Bill and Beverly settled in Fillmore, California where he was a high school biology teacher, and she was a homemaker and mother of three children. Later in life, Beverly was employed by the City of Fillmore where she worked for many years, retiring in 1995.
Beverly was a member of the Ebell Club and the Trinity Episcopal Church where she loved worship in the beautiful little church. She was an avid antique collector and created well appointed homes. She enjoyed living in the El Dorado Mobile Home Park community during her retirement years.
Beverly is survived by her son Lee Brisby and his wife Kay of Elbert, CO, daughter Kathy Brisby of Santa Paula, and son Tim Brisby of Concrete, WA. Also surviving are grandsons Tim Brisby II, Noah and Ryan Brisby, granddaughter Amanda Kinyon and great grandchildren Raven, Sensi, Aleksandra, Madden, Taylor, Trinity, and Ruby.
Our mother will be honored by her family privately and her ashes scattered at sea– there will be no formal services.

Melissa Alamillo (1950-2022)

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our mother Melissa Alamillo.
She passed away in Bakersfield Calif. on June 12th, 2022 at age 71yrs. She was born in Ventura Calif. on September 24th, 1950.
Melissa lived in Fillmore Calif. for most of her adult life until moving back to Bakersfield (Her old stomping grounds) about 12yrs ago. She was a wonderful mother who was always there for her kids whenever we needed her. She enjoyed hanging out with friends and family, hunting, horseback riding, playing softball and most of all cooking for everyone. She was a woman of MANY talents and ALWAYS willing to help anyone at any time. Melissa is proceeded in death by her father Robert (Flo) Matthews and her mother Barbara (Paul) Pippin, her Husband for more than 45yrs. Tommy Alamillo and Son Michael (T-Bird) Alamillo whom she loved VERY much. She is survived by her brothers Tom (JoAnn) Matthews and Tim (Laura) Matthews. Also her children Dennis (Agnes) Alamillo, Lesley Alamillo, Rachel (Larry) Tepezano & Tim (Carrie) Alamillo. Her Grandchildren Christina, Diane, Moneh, Evan, Della and Tommy. Plus 8 great-grandchildren and MANY nieces and nephews.
She will TRULY be missed!
Fly with the Angels Mama!
Until we meet again.......WE LOVE YOU!
*Services to be determined at a later date.
Sincerely, The Alamillo Family

Lin Thomas (1941-2022)

Lin Thomas, 81, of Fillmore, California, went to be with his Lord on Friday, May 27, 2022, while at home in Fillmore.
Lin was born January 8, 1941 to Elizabeth Campbell Thomas and Raymond Luverne Thomas in Ventura, California. Although the family moved a few times throughout his childhood, he ended up back in Ventura County where he graduated from Fillmore High School in 1959. From there, he headed to Fresno State University where he received a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts. During college, in 1961, he married high school sweetheart Judith Rae Gregory and together, they moved back to Grand Avenue in Fillmore where they have lived ever since.
Lin leaves behind a legacy both widespread and profound. He was a teacher by trade, a preacher of the Word by purpose, and an old car enthusiast by passion. He taught various industrial art classes, first at Thousand Oaks High School, then at Newbury Park High School, and finally at Fillmore High School until his retirement in 2002. In each of the final 3 years of teaching he led an auto restoration project that entailed he and his students restoring a Ford Model A pickup which they subsequently drove in the History Channel’s Great Race.
Since retiring, Lin spent some time working for Fillmore Irrigation Company, but mostly spent time on the family’s homestead ranch in Fillmore fixing up old cars or at the family cabin in Wawona, California, dreaming about lunkers, both past and future.
All who knew Lin soon learned about his deep faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He ministered wherever he was, whether as a Sunday School teacher, song leader, and choir singer; or, at a swap meet, under an old rusty car with a torch, or by the campfire in the high Sierras. His love for Jesus was open and apparent to all.
Lin was a servant by nature and lived to help others. Whatever was needed, whether an encouraging word, an old car part, or a welding job, Lin was glad to help anyone, and always with a smile and a story.
He is survived by his wife, Judy, of Fillmore; daughters Lindy Reilley of Fillmore and Michelle (Mike) Bly of Lewiston, Idaho; grandchildren Brandelin (Grant) Wade, Andrew (Krista) Reilley, Garrett Reilley, Cameron (Ana) Reilley, and Grace (Kevin) Reilly; and great grandchildren Vivian and Hunter Wade, and Judith, Sebastian, and Arden Reilley; as well as numerous other nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
A memorial service will be held on July 30, 2022, 4:00 pm at Santa Paula First Presbyterian Church, 121 Davis Street, Santa Paula, California, with a celebration of life afterwards at the family ranch located at 2206 Grand Avenue, Fillmore, California. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Santa Paula First Presbyterian Church or to a cancer research foundation of your choice.

Carolyn “Kay” Lois (King) McAdam (1941-2022)

We gather to mourn the loss of our beloved Kay McAdam, who succumbed to cancer at age 81.
Kay, the oldest of three, was born in Culver City, California, to Charles and Lois King. She graduated from Van Nuys High School in 1959. When fellow student Thomas McAdam walked into her class at San Fernando Valley State College (now Cal State Northridge), she had a feeling that he was the man she was going to spend her life with…and she was right. After she graduated in the spring of 1963 with a degree in childhood education and a teaching credential, she married Tom that August.
The young couple settled in Huntington Beach where Kay taught school for two years, until she became a full-time mother to their two daughters and son. In 1972, the McAdam family moved to a drafty old farmhouse in Fillmore, full of dogs, cats, and other animals. At one point, the family operated a flower shop in Moorpark, but even after it closed, she never lacked for the flowers she adored. Kay returned to work at the Fillmore Public Library as our much-loved children’s librarian, ready with a smile and reading recommendation. In later years, she was also a librarian at the Moorpark, Simi Valley, and Thousand Oaks public libraries until she retired in 2003.
A lover of antiques, cozy mysteries, decorating, Victorian style, shopping, and shoes–giving Imelda a run for her money–she also played the piano and gave the grandchildren lessons. She and Tom traveled widely, both internationally (Spain, France, England, Italy, Germany, and other places) and within the United States, including, most recently, trips to Hawaii. A trip to Europe with the grandchildren had some secret adventures we still don’t know. She also enjoyed spending time at Lake Berryessa in Napa County, at their tiny house with a great view.
Kay, a little, blue-eyed lady with red hair, was lighthearted, friendly, fun, and generous with her heart and time. She’d spend hours playing with her grandchildren and generally spoiling them rotten. She blessed the lives of everyone she met, and we are better people for having known her.
She is survived by Thomas, her husband of 58 years; her children, Karen Hodge, Kelli McAdam, and Thomas McAdam Jr.; four grandchildren, Kevin Hodge, Kristen Vail, Joseph McAdam, and Fiona McAdam; two great-grandchildren, William Vail and Calvin Vail; her brothers Charles King and Robert King; and numerous extended family and friends, all of whom miss her very much.

Virginia Marie Chessani (1945-2022)

It was on Mother’s Day May 08, 2022 that the Chessani and Alcantar families paid their final tributes to Virginia Marie Chessani: a Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, and Friend in the community of Piru. With hearts heavy the family sat in vigil by her side as she was called home to join her husband Arthur “Art” Chessani, lost only 2 years earlier on Father’s Day 2020. Her final moments were nothing less than peaceful, as she was truly surrounded in love by the family who filled her life with meaning and joy.
Virginia Marie Chessani was born Virginia Marie Alcantar on June 22, 1945 to parents Julio and Josephine Alcantar in Santa Paula, California. She was the eldest of five siblings, survived in life by: Rudy Alcantar Sr.; Irma Torres; Maria Troyke; and Cristina “Cris” Aguilar. Virginia grew up in the town of Piru, raised as the next-door neighbor of her eventual sweetheart and late husband Arthur Chessani. The two attended Fillmore High School where their three children would later graduate in their footsteps. In high school Virginia worked as a carhop at the local A&W Root Beer Stand in Fillmore, California during its prime. Shortly after graduating high school in 1963 she attended Bernard’s Beauty School in Ventura, California. She enjoyed a brief career as a beautician before venturing into business with her husband as the proud owners of Lechler’s Store in their hometown of Piru, California. Virginia went on to join the Retail Clerk’s Union as a Grocery Checker with Alpha Beta and later Ralph’s where she eventually retired after 30 years of dedicated service. After retiring she quickly found herself restless and went to work for Kohl’s retail store in Ventura shortly after it’s local premiere in California. Virginia demonstrated a strong work ethic in each job she held and in her unending dedication to her family at home. Before leaving to work each day, she woke early to prepare meals to feed those she loved at home. Her pantry was always full of goodies for grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and the front door was always open with a welcoming invite. She was a quiet but generous personality with a warm heart and a cloaked sense of humor. When Virginia laughed so did those around her, as she would suddenly burst into tearful laughter at the most unexpected but humorous moments.
Virginia will be remembered by her family for her love of Chumash Casino. She enjoyed regular trips to Chumash with her late husband, late mother, daughters, and sisters, always eager to play those quarter slot machines. Each year she marked her birthday with a trip to Las Vegas with family by her side. Virginia was always ready for a road trip and would never miss the opportunity to travel for the games and sporting events of her children, grandchildren, and nieces & nephews. Each year the Chessani family traveled to Convict Lake Resort just outside of Mammoth Lakes to enjoy an annual Opening Day Fishing trip. Virginia faithfully fed the fishermen in her life, waking early each morning to cook a full breakfast meal to warm them upon their return to the cabin. She loved to pack a picnic lunch to share with her family on camping trips and in remote parks along the way. Virginia was famous for her Macaroni Salad at any family function, and loved a good Banana Cream Pie and a simple cup of coffee with her late husband Art. You knew Virginia was done with a meal when she sneezed 3 times, always prompting the laughter of her family.
Always dressed in her favorite color blue Virginia was a true Dodger fan, a Pokeno player, never missed a Piru Christmas Parade, was a devoted mother and grandmother, and certainly never missed a beat when it came to caring for those she loved. Virginia leaves behind her three adult children and their respective families: Cynthia Chessani; Annie Alvary; and Phillip Chessani. While Virginia loved her children greatly, it was her grandchildren that became her pride and joy. She is survived by 8 grandchildren, 1 great granddaughter, and a great grandson on the way. Auntie V, as her relatives would lovingly call her, was a caretaker to everyone in her life. She demonstrated her unconditional love by showing up with reliable commitment and by opening her home and feeding those she welcomed inside. Virginia was headstrong and never complained in life. She knew what she wanted, couldn’t be persuaded, and enjoyed her routine. Virginia carried that same stoic and steadfast perseverance into her final years and days with grace.
Mother’s Day will forever be marked in the hearts of those who knew and loved Virginia Chessani; not only for the loss that it now symbolizes, but for the tribute it has always paid to the mother and grandmother that Virginia was in her lifetime. As a family the Chessani’s and Alcantar’s are comforted to know that she is now resting with her best friend and husband “Uncle Art,” and is joined by her parents in eternal life.

James Leonard Farrell

My brother James Leonard Farrell passed away May 18, 2022. He was 88-years old.

This must be more a reminiscence of the life of my eldest brother than an obituary. A typical obituary would be too short in recalling a few events and accomplishments. I knew him well before he graduated from high school but heard from him less after he entered military service. When I compare his life to that of any other member of the Farrell family, I find my brother Jim to be most admirable, but least recognized. He was first of all a humble, devout member of his Catholic Church, from his earliest days to the day he died. No one who knew him could doubt that. In my lifetime I never heard Jim utter a curse or swear word. Few recognized his accomplishments because of his quiet, retiring personality, never asking for anything, always generous with what he had to give.

He was, ironically, the greatest man I have known during my life. I say "ironically" because of all the Farrell family members, Jim's talents were always unnoted and unappreciated. The irony is due to the fact that despite doing everything right he grew up in a hyper-critical family atmosphere, leaving him to think everything he did was somehow flawed. This finally sacked his self-confidence. In my childhood I could see unjustified parental criticism fall upon him relentlessly and couldn't understand why. In most important endeavors Jim surpassed his six siblings, unacknowledged.

He did well in school, attending academically challenging Loyola High School in Los Angeles as a boarder. His grades were excellent. He shuttled back and forth over the old Conejo Grade between school and the ranch in a rattly Model-A our father bought for him.

Later, Jim graduated from Cal Poly with a degree in Horticulture. He always had a love of growing things, like his pioneering namesakes, great-grandfather James Leonard Sr. and grandfather James Leonard Jr., who first began farming in 1859, before there was an Oxnard or a Ventura County.

Following college, Jim joined the US Marines. After a 4-year hitch he was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant E-5, difficult to achieve in the 1950s, and far superior to any rank achieved by his four siblings who served as well in the Army, Air Force, and Marines.

But Jim could not find a niche in the regular business world that suited him. Instead, he favored propagating various species of palms, berries, etc. The joy of his life was always to visit with old friends, relatives and their families, many from his grade school years. As friends and relatives faded in time, or moved away, Jim found himself somewhat isolated. Remaining single without children, his own family saw less of him. For many years he lived alone near a desert area continuing to propagate fruit and various specialties for market.

Jim visited me in Fillmore a few times over the years when in town on business. He lived an undeserved life of solitude but found great comfort in his Savior, Jesus Christ. As a member of a large family of plenty, he deserved significantly more than he received.

But I know he was received with great joy in eternity by all of his many true friends and relatives who awaited him, because "The last shall be first, and the first last” - Matthew 20:16
A Funeral Mass will be held on June 8, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Padre Serra 5205 Upland Rd., Camarillo, Ca. 93010, with reception to follow.

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord.

Wanda Lou Haynes (1927-2022)

Wanda Lou Haynes, 94, passed away in the early hours of May 6th, 2022 in Fillmore, CA.
“Always be happy in what you do, this is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” This was Wanda’s philosophy, and what guided her life, along with a foundation of kindness and hard work, instilled by her late mother and father, Olen and Sue Core.
Wanda was born in Ratcliff, Arkansas in 1927 and lived the majority of her 94 years in Fillmore, CA, where her family settled when she was a young girl. Wanda was a strong fixture in the community. She began working at the Fillmore Theater while in high school, ushering guests to their seats while her father ran the projector. She went on the graduate from Fillmore High School in 1945. She then moved to the “big city of Ventura” with a few girlfriends, where she worked as a telephone operator and billing clerk. She once said she moved with her girlfriends so they could “meet their husbands”. In the interim she progressed to a supervisor with the phone company and, eventually, to a management career in banking at Ramona Savings and Loan, where she worked from 1953 until her retirement in 1990.
While Wanda retired from her career in banking, she did not retire from life. She went on to travel extensively throughout the world with long time friends, while making new friends along the way, even luring one to start a business in her precious, small town of Fillmore. She continued to support her friends and local organizations through her administrative work for a local chiropractor, financial firm and law firm, as well as her volunteer work with the Fillmore Alumni Association, where she served as a board member and President.
Wanda married the love of her life, William “Bill” Haynes, in 1953, and was blessed with two children, Paula and Steve. Wanda lost her husband to cancer in 1974, but her love for him was sustained through her family. Her children blessed her with four grandchildren, who went on to bless her with five great grandchildren. The joy of her life was family. She devoted herself to them. All who knew her, could feel in every word and action that her family was at the center of who she was. She also lived a life of service to the Lord, who we know welcomed her into the gates of heaven with a warm embrace, where she rejoices in His love, and is now reunited with her sweet Bill. She was fully loved, is greatly missed, and will survive through us who were blessed to be a part of her; daughter Paula Collins and husband Jeff; son Steven Haynes. Grandchildren Kimberly Ritchey; Melisa Ritchey Collins and husband Justin; William Haynes and wife Jessica; Christopher Haynes and wife Courtney; step grandson, Jacob Collins and great grandchildren; Gavin, Raegan and Milo Collins and Garrett and Tristan Haynes.
“I am glad that God made me the way I am. He is my inspiration when I am sad, and when I am glad. Be happy in all that you do and always think positive. He will lead you all the way.” Wanda L Haynes
In lieu of flowers donations to the Fillmore High Alumni Associated would be greatly appreciated.

Steve Alfred Acosta (1960-2022)

Our father, Steve Alfred Acosta, died at the age of 62 on April 21, 2022, in Piru, CA. Steve was born on April 11, 1960, in Oxnard, CA, to Viola Anne and Alfred Andrew Acosta. Steve was raised in the great town of Piru, CA, and graduated from Fillmore High School. He was brother to Jeffrey Curtis Acosta and Stephanie Ann Acosta. Steve was a jack-of-all-trades and enjoyed his work as a professional welder for 25 years. He enjoyed the waters and canyons of greater Piru and loved spending time with his family. He was a genuine friend, and his kindness was well known by many. Steve now leaves his legacy, hopes, and dreams in the hearts and hands of his children, grandchildren, and family.
Steve is preceded in death by his brother, Jeffrey Curtis Acosta, father, Alfred Andrew Acosta, grandmother, Lupe Dominguez, and grandfather, Fermin Ramirez. Steve leaves behind his daughters, Diana Marie (Acosta) Sawyer and Amber Natividad (Acosta) Campbell, sons, Steve Andrew Acosta and Daniel Thomas Drum, and grandchildren, Maya Isabella Thompson, Madison Natividad Thompson, Aiden Orion Campbell, Slade Lee Campbell, Rhyder Dakoda Bear Campbell, Harper Faith Campbell, and Finley Sawyer. Steve also shared his love and influence as a father to Hailey Drum and Aubree Drum, and had love for his friend of many years, Kimberly Drum.
Steve was a well loved, good man, who, at his core, strived to be an honorable father, son, and brother. Our dad is truly and deeply missed. There are no words to convey our sorrow over the sudden and tragic death of our father. We miss you dad, we love you dad, now and always. Your soul has been returned home; be at peace.
Steve will be cremated, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Thank you to our dear family and friends for your love and support during this difficult time.
To sign the family's online guest book please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and locate Steve's name in "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, SANTA PAULA, CA 805.229.705

Ellen Mae Gravley (1931-2022)

Ellen Mae Akers passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 15, 2022 in Santa Clarita, CA. She was 90 years old. She was born in Arkansas City, Kansas on May 27, 1931 to Carl and Ada Akers and was the eldest of 7 children. She graduated High School in 1948 and started working at General Electric where she met the love of her life Joe Gravley. In 1955 they married and had 5 children. In the early 70’s they moved to Fillmore, California to be near her family and raise their kids. She worked as an office manager at her families business for almost 30 years in Saticoy, CA. Ellen and Joe were married for 57 wonderful years before he passed away in 2012. She was a loving Christian who was cherished by all that knew her and a very active member at the Fillmore Foursquare Church for years. She enjoyed going to yard sales and playing dominoes and cards with her family and friends. Her family was the most important part of her life especially with the grandkids and great grandkids. She is loved and will be dearly missed. Now God has a new angel by his side.
Ellen is survived by her 5 children and their spouses Angela and Steve Core, Joe and Thaisa Gravley, Rhonda Asfor, Shiryl and Bob Mandeville, Leanne and Phil Mori along with 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
A “Celebration of Life” will be held on May 27, 2022 between 1:00pm -6:00pm in Santa Clarita, CA. Please contact a family for more details.