Susan Banks (1945-2020)

Susan Banks passed away unexpectedly of an aortic aneurysm rupture on February 14, 2020. She was 74 years old.
Susan Christine Banks was born in England on April 3, 1945. At the age of nineteen, she left home and came to the United States by ocean liner. She worked as a temp in Boston for several months, then continued her adventure across the upper United States by Greyhound Bus. She arrived in Los Angeles and met her future husband, Keith Banks. They were married in England on her 21st birthday. The couple returned to the United States and Susan became an active mother to her three children.
The family moved to Fillmore in 1974. Keith and Susan became well known in Fillmore for their home remodeling business, House Doctors, where Susan specialized in tile work and painting. They also became Real Estate Agents. Susan was a regular as a volunteer in the children's classrooms and she became very active in the community.
After the death of her husband, Keith, in 1996, Susan began working with her daughter Taurie and they opened Iron Horse Saddlery, an equestrian equipment store, in Moorpark and Fillmore. When her father had a stroke Susan retired, becoming a caretaker for her parents until their passing. For the past several years she has kept busy doing painting jobs and helping her daughter Taurie with her business ventures.
Since moving to Fillmore, Susan has been very active in the Fillmore Women's Service Club, holding many offices and holding the position of president several times. She was an advocate for the scholarship program and helped develop the Adult Women's Scholarship, for women returning to education, and the Trade Scholarship, for those students with special talents. She encouraged her daughter, Taurie to join the club and Taurie is now the current president, continuing Susan's legacy of helping our community.
Susan also enjoyed fostering kittens for the Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center. She was very proud of the fact that she and Taurie had fostered 115 “bottle babies” in two years and was looking forward to continuing that work. She was excited to be a “Foster Failure” by adopting the 115th kitten, a beautiful black kitten, coincidentally named “London”.
Susan had an amazing spirit that is evident in the love and respect that so many people had for her. She was quick to laugh and loved to dance. She was kind and giving to everyone she met. She loved to encourage the young people of Fillmore to find their passion and believe in themselves.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Keith Banks; her parents, Frank and Kathleen Dray; and is survived by her three children: Dray Banks; Taurie Banks; and Davin Banks-Casas; a son in law: Sergio Casas; and one grandson whom she adored: Sabian Howard, all residing in Fillmore
A memorial for Susan will be planned after the current Coronavirus pandemic is over and will be celebration of her life.
For those who would like to honor Susan, we ask that women look into joining the Fillmore Women's Service Club to carry on Susan's great work. People can also make a donation to one of the organizations that Susan dedicated herself to; the Fillmore Women's Service Club for a scholarship in Susan's name and The Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC).

Marianne Steppler Skinner (1942-2020)

Marianne Steppler Skinner of Georgetown, Texas passed away at home on January 27, 2020 after a brief illness. She was born in Ventura, California on January 29,1942 to William Albert Steppler and Gladys Mary Steppler of Fillmore, California. She attended local schools through high school. After high school, she attended Ventura College.
Marianne enjoyed a long career as a Program Analyst with the Department of Defense, working in Washington D.C., Jackass Flats, Nevada and Port Hueneme, California. She retired in 2004, remaining in California until 2010, when she and husband, Lee Skinner, moved to Georgetown, Texas. Marianne and Lee were married on April 11, 1992 and were absolute soul mates.
Marianne enjoyed physical fitness classes of all sorts, was a voracious reader, loved dogs and the California beaches. She and Lee enjoyed many camping trips to the Rincon area of Ventura County. All the trips included their dogs, of course. Marianne was very spiritual, was baptized while in high school, and was very active in her faith. Marianne was an active member of AA with over 34 years of sobriety. She actively worked with hospitals and institutions and sponsored numerous women over the years.
She is predeceased by her parents; brother, Charles; and grandparents. She is survived by her husband, Lee; father-in-law, Wilford Skinner of Grand Saline, Texas; sisters, Kathryn Westerberg (husband Roger) and Susan Adams (husband Curt) of California; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Due to the Coronavirus, the Service had to be cancelled.

Nancie Jean DeFever Hart (1946-2020)

Nancie Jean DeFever Hart, 1964 Fillmore High School graduate, passed away peacefully in her beautiful home surrounded by her loving family on April 3, 2020. Nancie was the daughter of Bernard and Donna DeFever. She is survived by her loving husband, Don Hart (class of 64’), the son of Pete and Irene Hart. Nancie was the niece of Oscar DeFever, long time Fillmore Fire Chief.
Nancie is mother to her four surviving sons: Eric, Keith, Jeff, and Cary. She is also survived by her six wonderful grandchildren: Scott, Kevin, Jace, Cody, Emily, and Tyler. She was also gifted with two great-grandchildren: Kameron and Quinn.
Some of Nancie’s greatest attributes are her loving and caring nature. She could spend hours at home playing scrabble or painting colorful floral creations. Back in the day, Don and Nancie could be found eating taquitos at We Three in Fillmore.
At her request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made in her name to the American Diabetes Association.
She will be greatly missed by all.

Herbert G. Sauceda (1945-2020)

Herbert G. Sauceda passed away on the land he loved the most inside his home on Friday, March 27, 2020. Herbert was born on October 3, 1945 and a lifelong resident of Piru, California. He spent his career as a top technician at Polly Carbon Inc. in Valencia, CA., in which he eventually retired from.
He is survived by his only brother Ruben his wife Ramona. Nephews; Ruben wife Maria, Timothy, Isaac and Mateo. Nieces; Romelia her husband Matt, Lorraine, Enjoli and his princess and only great Niece Elize Mercedes. He enjoyed watching Elize dance taking her to most dance classes and always encouraging her dreams. He never missed one of her recitals, shows or competitions and weekly stops at IHOP after practice was there must have routine!
In his earlier years he played as a lead guitarist in a band and was and a huge fan of the outdoors specifically fishing and hunting. After retirement he even worked at one of the local shooting ranges in Piru, CA. He worked there for many years and was admired by all who knew him and was known to always get you on target. One of the things he was most proud of was serving his Country. He served in the Vietnam War for the U.S. Army first Battalion 28th infantry first infantry division. He received several metals during his term but one most recognized was his accommodation for heroism. After a massive rocket attack his entire battalion was in golfed in fire yet he rushed to assist in treating and evacuating the wounded men. Despite being hit several times with flying Shrapnel he still continued delivering vital resupplies of ammunition to forward positions. He was truly the definition of an American war Hero and admired by all who knew him. Although He will be dearly missed, he will continue to live in the hearts of his loved ones. He always said, his “Princess Elize” was his world so for now we’ll be his moon until we meet above the Sun.
Graveside services for Herbert will be held on Friday, April 3, 2020 at 12:00 PM at Piru Cemetery. Funeral Services are under the direction of Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services.

Gumesindo “Tory” Cervantez Jr. (1941-2020)

On Monday, March 16, 2020 Tory passed away peacefully at the age of 78. He was a long time resident of Fillmore. Tory was born on May 4, 1941 to Gumesindo and Mary Cervantez. He attended elementary and high schools in Fillmore. Soon after leaving school he started working for Chaney’s Trucking as a hauler, from there he started his career as a Stressor Operator for Ameron Pole Products in Fillmore and retired after 30 years of service. That is where he met the love of his life Gloria Ramirez and they would share 36 years together as husband and wife. Tory loved the outdoors. He was an avid fishermen, hunter, enjoyed working in his garden at home and at the school farm. He also enjoyed raising Canaries, Cockatiels, loved to BBQ, he enjoyed coaching Little League Baseball, and playing washers. He was a die hard New York Giants fan and Dodgers fan.
He is proceeded in death by his parents Gumesindo Cervantez and Mary Zuno, wife Gloria Cervantez, Brother Ony Cervantez and sister Lupe Rizo. He is survived by, Step-Daughter Donna Underwood (Scott), Pete (Emilie), Joe (Marla), Tony (Rosie), Georgia (Joe), Frank, three Grand Children and numerous Nieces and Nephews.
Viewing will be Wednesday, March 25th from 5pm-7pm and Rosary to follow at Chapel of the Angels 600 E. Pleasant Street, Santa Paula.
Burial will be Thursday, March 26th at 10am, Bardsdale Cemetery.

Rose Terrazas (1943-2020)

Rose Marie Terrazas, age 76, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family the evening of Monday, March 9, 2020. She was born to the late William and Josephine Tongate on May 21, 1943.
Rose worked many years in the medical field caring for so many as a CNA in in various hospitals and nursing homes. Additionally, she was a caring and loving wife, mother, and grandmother and homemaker. By far the greatest “job’ title she ever held was grandmother, the amount of love and the special bond she shared with her grandkids was unmeasurable. She enjoyed to cook and bake, not only for her family but also for anyone who would come to her house. Rose was a warmhearted, kind, and caring person who truly enjoyed making others happy and would always go out of her way to ensure that others were happy and will be missed by many.
She is survived by her husband of 51 years Raymond Terrazas, sons Anthony and Tommy Terrazas, Grandchildren Alex, Brianna and Courtney Terrazas, and Daughter in law Maria Teresa Terrazas, and a number of close family members and friends who she loved deeply.
A celebration of life will take place on April 11, 2020 at 440 River St. Fillmore, CA. 93015 at 2pm.

Billie Mae Stimac (1927-2020)

On March 7, 2020, Billie Mae Stimac (née Elkins) passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, at age 92, just shy of her 93rd birthday.
Billie was born at home in Bardsdale on March 19, 1927 to Carl Ward and Hazel Ione Talmage Elkins, the second of four children. She moved with her mother and siblings Patricia, Carl, and Carolyn to Fillmore after the death of her father. After graduating from Fillmore High School in 1944, she got a job at the Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company as a switchboard operator. It was during this time she met the love of her life, John Robert Stimac. She thought he was very handsome and a good dancer. They married on December 7, 1946, and shared 56 years together.
While John continued his work as a lineman, Billie raised their four children—Stephen, Joanne, Catherine, and Joseph. After living in Ventura and Fillmore, the family finally settled in Van Nuys. Once all of her children were in school, she went back to school herself, eager to rejoin the working world. She graduated from business school and began working at the Valley News and Green Sheet as a tele-typesetter. It was deafening in the machine room, but she loved the 15 years she spent there.
Her house was not just a home for her children, but also their friends; the door was always open to whomever needed refuge. She was generous and compassionate, and only wanted to see her children happy and successful. Over the following years, she welcomed their respective spouses—Anne, Roger, Thomas, and Darlene—with open arms. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her biggest delight; she had twenty-two in total, with one more on the way.
After John's retirement and a move to Moorpark, the couple stayed busy, caring for their grandchildren, golfing, and participating in local clubs. Billie was a member of the Moorpark Women's Fortnightly Club and The Altar Society at Holy Cross Church. They could also fully indulge in their empty nest and travel the world. Billie was always up for adventure, whether the destination was a campground with a leaky tent, a suite on the seas, or a tiny room in a quaint hotel.
John's death in 2003 didn't dampen her need to socialize, travel, and give back to her community. Before his death, they had finally settled in Leisure Village. She dove into everything the Village had to offer, working backstage with the Player's Guild, joining the bowling league, and playing bridge and bunko. She continued to travel with family, though her trips got shorter and she stayed closer to home.
Billie was an accomplished hostess, baker, and seamstress. She tap danced, taught herself to paint, set a high standard for doing things right even if it meant exhausting herself, and bowled a 200 game at age 84. She loved the color aquamarine, Franzia boxed wine, fast food, musicals, Frank Sinatra, getting lost in a good book, the film Casablanca, lighthouses, and roses. She had a knack for telling jokes at unlikely moments.
Billie is preceded in death by her firstborn son, Stephen “Rocky,” and her husband, John. She is survived by her sister Carolyn Sherman, her four children and their spouses, her ten grandchildren and their spouses, and her twelve great-grandchildren. She will be remembered as a strong woman who inspired and guided her family to lead lives as joy-filled and giving as hers. She was loving and much loved.
Memorial services will be held Friday, March 20th, with a viewing at 9:00 a.m. and a funeral mass at 9:30 a.m. at Padre Serra Parish, 5205 Upland Road, Camarillo, CA. Following the mass, a private family ceremony will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Anice Christine (Boblett) Clinton (1924-2020)

Anice Christine (Boblett) Clinton, age 95, passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2020, at Shiloh Nursing and Rehab in Springdale. She was born on September 18, 1924, in Clarendon, Arkansas, to Frank and Nora (Wilhite) Sanders. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, James Boblett; her son, Jerry Boblett; three half-sisters; and her grandson, Jeffrey Talent.
Anice was a homemaker by trade, but it was also something she took great pride in. Her doors were always open to a child in need. She loved everyone that she met. She thoroughly enjoyed life and had a wonderful laugh.
She is survived by her six children, Frank Boblett and wife Peggy of Ventura, California, Dellia Thorn and husband Jimmy of Alma, Jimmy Boblett and wife O’detta of Kingman, Arizona, Patsy Oxford of Springdale, and Danny Boblett and wife Glenda of Van Buren; fifteen grandchildren; and many great and great-great grandchildren.
Cremation and arrangements are under the care of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home.
To place an online tribute, visit www.nelsonberna.com

Nicolas Landeros (1924-2020)

Nicolas Landeros, age 95, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2020. He was born on September 10, 1924 in Bronsville, Texas. He became an agriculture laborer and settled in Fillmore, California in 1959. He loved Ventura County and took advantage of all the beauty it has to offer. He taught each of his children how to swim at the Piru Lake and how to fish at the Ventura Beach. For work he planted and harvested crops throughout many fields from Southern to Northern California and into Washington State. He also enjoyed growing fruit trees of his own and had an uncanny ability to produce a unique version of sweet oranges and tangerines. His grandchildren were big fans of his fruits and it was something they always enjoyed. Nicolas could often be found among his many citrus trees that line his beloved home on Foothill Drive. During his retirement years he remained active taking daily walks, tending to his crops at the school farm, and attending events at the Senior Center, where he proudly received a Best Dancer award. Nicolas will be fondly remembered as a loving family man and a kind friend. He is now united in heaven with his wife, Gabriela (1999) and son, Rigo Landeros (2016). He is survived by sons Nicholas Landeros (Gail Simpson) of Ventura, CA, Francisco Landeros, Cristobal Landeros of Fillmore, CA and daughters Abigail (Salvador) Sandoval of Adelanto, CA, Anna (Gerald) Cervantes of Fort Wayne, IN, Josie (Tony) Alamillo of Palmdale, CA and Laura Landeros of Fillmore, CA. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren who will miss their "Grandpa Nico" dearly. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A visitation for Nicolas will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2020 from 5-9pm (Rosary at 7pm) located at the Perez Family Funeral Home, 600 Central Avenue in Fillmore. Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 28, 2020 at 10am located at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Santa Paula. Burial will follow at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery in Santa Paula. Assisting the family with funeral arrangements is the Perez Family Funeral Home located in Fillmore 805-524-0439. Please sign Nicolas’ memorial at www.FillmoreMortuary.com

Gloria M. Warring (1927-2020)

Gloria was born on November 6, 1927, in Willowbrook, CA, to Earl and Ethel Mauck. She was the youngest of six children. Her family lived throughout California, from Long Beach to Auburn, but always seemed to come back to their beloved town of Fillmore. Gloria was known to be a bit shy until she stood on stage and sang. One of her fondest memories was when she sang for injured Veterans at the Port Hueneme Naval Hospital. In 1945, Gloria married her sweetheart, Gene Warring, when he returned from the war in the South Pacific. Their first home together was in Long Beach, CA, while Gene was stationed at the Naval shipyard. After the war, they then returned to Fillmore to be near their families. Gloria was very close to her siblings, especially her sisters, creating a tight-knit extended family for which we are all very grateful.
God blessed Gloria and her husband, Gene, with four children. Twins, Christopher and Kathleen, daughter Crystal, and son Philip. Unfortunately, Christopher passed when he was just three days old which was an incredible loss. Making a home for her family became Gloria’s true passion. She also loved gardening and was a member of the Fillmore Garden Club. As her children grew, she was a Girl Scout Leader and Sunday school teacher. Gloria’s most fulfilling work outside the home was beside her husband as a co-owner of a local Union Oil distributorship. Gloria was her happiest when camping with family and friends, whether at beaches or in the mountains. After retiring, they traveled throughout the country in their RV, which created fond and lasting memories. Gene and Gloria relocated to Mariposa County during their later years to be close to their grown daughters and their families. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren filled her life with love and joy. There was no place she’d rather be than with her family.
There was something very special about Gloria that is hard to put into words, and she will be missed dearly by our family. She often said “she loved too much,” and she certainly taught her family well what it means to love and be loved. God blessed our family with her presence; we were all so lucky to call her mom, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend. Now He blesses us again with her sweet return to Him. Gloria Warring passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 6, 2020, in Mariposa, CA, at the age of 92.
Gloria was preceded in death by her husband Gene Warring, her son Christopher and by her six siblings; Thelma Robertson, Virginia Gilmore, Juanita Nichols, Wayne Mauck, and Clifford Mauck. Gloria is survived by her three children, daughter Kathleen (Vernon) Crofford of Mariposa, daughter Crystal (Gary) Cox of Mariposa, son Philip (Jessica) Warring of Millbrae; her seven grandchildren, Leah (Ron) Zawadzki, Kelly (Ryan) Rettig, Summer (Justin) Gish, John (Gianna) Cox, Seth (Leanna) Cox, Alexander (Kari) Warring, and Sam Warring; and ten great-grandchildren Kenzie, Ben, Jack, Joe, Kate, Violet, Leo, Micah, Ezra, and Ford; as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives who loved her so much.

Ana Rodriguez de Diaz (1929-2020)

In the early morning hours of Valentine’s Day, our beloved mom and grandma passed away peacefully in her sleep and was reunited with the love of her life, Pedro Diaz. Ana Rodriguez de Diaz was born on February 10, 1929, in Tangancicuaro, Michoacan, Mexico to Antonio Rodriguez and Maria de Jesus Lopez. Pedro and Ana met in their hometown and began their relationship after Ana accepted a flower from Pedro while they walked through the town plaza. They were married on July 27, 1949, and together they had seven children. During the 1950’s Pedro took the opportunity to come to California to work as part of the Bracero Program, while Ana and the kids stayed in Mexico. While Pedro was working in the United States Ana took on the responsibility of caring for the kids. She made their clothes, made sure they went to school, did their homework and their chores. In order to provide extra income for the family, she made clothes for other people in town as well as making and selling jello and bread. In July 1969 Pedro fulfilled Ana’s wishes and obtained legal residency for the entire family. It was always said that it was important for them to come together and all at once. They made their home in Fillmore, California and were married for 62 years. Ana enjoyed crocheting, listening to Los Huracanes del Norte, Mariachi music, taking care of her family, her house and her birds. She was more than just our mom and grandma, she was the glue that held us all together. Sundays were spent at grandma and grandpa’s house, as were all the holidays. We are filled with a lifetime of these memories that will never be forgotten. Ana leaves behind a beautiful legacy of seven children: Luz & Javier Alcaraz, Luis & Jenny Diaz, Ramiro & Trini Diaz, Rafael & Lupe Diaz, Ramon & Eva Diaz, Ana & Agustin Campos, Pedro Diaz & Sami Tarrab; 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Our family would like to acknowledge and thank the Greenfield Care Center of Fillmore and the hospice staff who took such good care of our mom for the past month. Thank you for your kindness, patience, and for allowing us to be with her at all hours.
Vigil service and Rosary will be held on Monday, February 24th at 7:45 pm at Saint Francis of Assisi Church. Mass will be on Tuesday, February 25th at 10:00 am also at Saint Francis Church. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Leanora Cardona Ainsworth (1928-2020)

Fillmore – Leanora Cardona Ainsworth 91 passed away peacefully at her home in Long Beach, California on Tuesday, January 21, 2020.
Leanora was born in Fillmore on November 6, 1928. In her younger years she worked for Olga Company as a supervisor which she enjoyed and made many friends.
She was a very kind and strong lovely lady. She lived a rich full life before the onset of Alzheimer’s.
Now she is at home in heaven with her son Ronald Strawn husband Eddie Ainsworth and brother Max Cardona.
She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
Memorial Services will be held at Piru Cemetery, California on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 10:00am.

Irene Gonzalez (1923-2020)

Irene "Nena" Gonzalez passed away peacefully on February 7, 2020, after 96 years living a beautiful life.
Irene was born in Fillmore, CA on March 23, 1923 to Carlos Sanchez and Ventura Rivas Sanchez. She graduated from Fillmore High School and was a proud member of the Flash's Class of 1941.
Irene married the love of her life, Jaime V. Gonzalez, in 1952 and shortly after their wedding, they left the small town of Fillmore to build their life in the big city. Once in Los Angeles, they were blessed with two children - Linda and Jaime. Irene was a homemaker most of her life and she took great pride in caring for her husband, children, grandsons, nieces, and nephews, while in Los Angeles.
Irene and Jaime were married for 43 years before she was widowed in 1995. In 2000, Irene returned to Ventura County to join Linda and her family in Oxnard. When age should have slowed her down, Irene did not stop. She loved to spend hours tending to her garden, she could whip up dozens of tortillas whenever someone kindly requested a batch, she loved to attend her grandchildren and great-grandchildren's sporting events, and was a fixture at church every Sunday. Irene also had the opportunity to travel to Hawaii, Mexico, Italy, and the Holy Land over the years. In 2016, at the age of 93, she embarked on her most memorable trip. She traveled to Washington D.C. to see herself, her family's story, and her grandmother's heirloom (a molino used to grind corn to make tortillas) on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. "Can you believe it?" she exclaimed at the site of the exhibit. She lived a full life and was a dear friend and a "bonus grandma" to many and she will be deeply missed by all that knew her.
Irene is preceded in death by Carlos and Ventura Rivas Sanchez (parents), Jaime V. Gonzalez (husband), Eva Maria Sanchez (sister), Sal Godoy (son-in-law), along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She is survived by her two children: Linda Godoy and Jaime Gonzalez (Maria); her five grandchildren: Rene Gonzalez (Melissa), Carlo Godoy (Annie), Natasha Godoy, Adrian Gonzalez (Debbie), and Armando Gonzalez (Cynthia); her six great-grandchildren: Fernando, Suzy, Rachel, & Andre Godoy; Emma and Micah Gonzalez; her sister: Susan Austin Beyerl; as well as many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The Godoy and Gonzalez families would like to express their appreciation to the staff at Coastal View Healthcare Center, where Irene resided the last three years of her life. Also, a special thank you to the caring doctors, nurses, and staff at Community Memorial Hospital, who cared for her the last nine days of her life.
A rosary will be recited at 10:30am on Thursday, February 27, 2020 with a Funeral Mass to begin at 11:00am at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 1048 Ventura Street in Fillmore, CA. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 South Sespe Street in Fillmore.
To sign the family's online guestbook, share stories and post pictures please visit www.garciamortuaryoxnard.com and click on Irene's name located below "Obituaries."
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned and Operated GARCIA MORTUARY, 629 South A Street, Oxnard, CA. For further information, please call (805) 486.9148

Ygnacio Garcia (1942-2020)

Ygnacio Garcia went with his Lord after a lengthy illness on February 10, 2020.
Ygnacio Garcia was a lifelong Fillmore resident born March 14, 1942. After graduating from FHS in 1961 he joined the United States Air Force.
He returned to Fillmore where he met the love of his life Belen, who he affectionately calls "sweetheart." They married February 15, 1969 and have celebrated nearly 51 years of marriage.
Nacho was part of the Union Pipe Fitters local 345, and The American Legion. He retired from SBCC in 2004.
He is survived by his wife Belen, daughter Yvonne, son Michael grandson Matthew and granddaughter Jasmine, brother John and sister Esther all from Fillmore.
The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to his brother John and his grandsons girlfriend Amri friends Alice and Rosario for all that you have done to help support him.
Viewing will be at Perez Funeral Home in Fillmore, Tuesday, February 18th. Rosary Mass will be Wednesday February 19th at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at 9:30AM burial will conclude at the Bardsdale Cemetery.

Ernie Vasquez (1956-2020)

Ernie Vasquez our beloved brother passed away on January 16, 2020 at 63 years old. Ernie was born on June 10, 1956. He graduated from Fillmore High Class of 1975. After graduation he went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, he lived in Wilmington, North Carolina. Ernie is survived by his father Eliseo Vasquez, brothers Miguel Vasquez, Guillermo Vasquez and Tyler Dees Vasquez, Sisters Lucrecia Vasquez, Rosa Vasquez and Carmen Vasquez, Children Jonathon Vasquez and Andrea Ross Vasquez and four grandchildren. Ernie will be missed and will forever be in our hearts. Services will be held February 1, 2020 at 2:00pm at Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore.

Shirley Spitler - A Celebration of Life

It is time to celebrate a wonderful life. The life of our Mom, and Granny, Shirley Spitler. When you have had a great life and go to Heaven, as my Mom said, it is a blessing. Shirley Spitler was born May 16th, 1937 in Hollis, Oklahoma. And passed on to Heaven December 29th, 2019 in her home with loved ones around her in Fillmore, Ca. Shirley’s life will be celebrated at Faith Community Church at 355 D St. in Fillmore, Ca. on Saturday, January 18th, 2020 at 11 a.m.
Shirley was born on May 16th, 1937 to Cleo and Oma Lackey in Hollis, Ok. At the age of seven years old Shirley along with her parents, and along with her brother Leon, made the big move to Turlock, Ca. A few years later, sister Linda Kay was born. Shirley graduated from Turlock High School in June of 1955, and three days later married Marion Woods. After our Dad served in the Navy our Mom and Dad went on many adventures in life. One was to Taft, Ca. where their first daughter Denise Woods (Hobbs) was born, and two years later daughter Donneta Woods (Smallwood) was born. The next adventure took Shirley and the family to Fillmore in 1960, and here she was to stay. Son Joe Woods was born in 1961.
Marion and Shirley bought their home that Shirley lived in until her passing in 1965. Shirley’s husband Marion passed away in a car accident on Highway 126 March 11, 1966. After some time Shriley opened a women and children's clothing store in Fillmore called what else… Shirleys! She owned the store until she closed her doors nineteen years later. Shirley married Robert Spitler in 1968 until his passing in January 2008. After Shirley closed her store in Fillmore, she opened a new store in Newbury Park. After seven years she retired, then after the Northridge earthquake, Shirley felt she needed to help the city she loved. Shirley helped the City of Fillmore rebuild. Shirley worked for the City of Fillmore until 2005.
Shirley loved her family. Daughters Denise Hobbs, Donneta Smallwood, Son in law David Smallwood, Son Joe Woods, Daughter in law Judy Fairall-Woods. Grandchildren Shane Woods (Wife Alma), Jeremy Hobbs, Alyssa Aguilar (Partner Anthony), Robbie Aguilar (Partner Brianna), J.D. Smallwood, Joey Woods, Westley Fairall, Sarah Woods, Jake Woods (Fiance Emma), Mahalia Woods, Hannah Fairall. Great Grandchildren, Haley Woods, Landon Woods, Sarah Hobbs, Glen Hobbs, A.J. Mayfield. Kiki Aguilar, Janelle McCall, and Baby Girl Woods due in May. Her beloved Sister Linda Kay D’Agostano and a wonderful extended family.
Shirley follows to Heaven her Husband Marion Woods, Mother Oma Lackey, Father Cleo Lackey, Husband Robert Spitler, Brother Leon Lackey, and many more family members and loved ones.
Donneta and I would like to say thank you all for the cards and calls. We would like to thank Vitas Hospice. A huge thank you to Nurses Michael and Sarah. We would like to ask you in lew of Flowers, please donate to Vitas Hospice in the name of Shirley Spitler.
Our Granny will always live in our hearts. She was a strong woman who got the most out of life, no matter what life brought her. Shirley Spitler touched many people in her life. We thank God for the time we had with her. Right now she is dancing beautifully in Heaven, when she had no rhythm on earth. She is singing beautifully in Heaven, when she could not carry a tune on earth. She is now able to hear out of both ears in Heaven, when she could not on earth. Our Granny is in Heaven and that is a blessing, just like she was a blessing to us on earth.

Eddie Davis

“Thank You Lord for Another Beautiful Day!” “Yes Cerritos!” “Okie Dokie” “Good Deal!” “Viva Los Doyers!” “Speedy Gonzales!” “I was born at night but not last night!” “Momma didn’t raise no fool!” “10-4!” “1-2-3 duh!” “Mercy!” “Oh mylanta!” “Oh my Gatos!” “Provecho!” “Momma!” “Sweetness!” These are just a few sayings that Eddie would say!
In 1969 the first man ever walked on the moon, that same year Adrian & Madeline Davis welcomed their first child a baby boy Adrian (Eddie) Paul Davis Jr. into the world.
For 8 years it was just the three of them. Then Madeline was expecting another child, when Eddie was asked what he wanted a brother or sister his reply was that he wanted a monkey. Two sisters later he was a fun, loving protective big brother! As a child Eddie was calm, free spirited, easy going and a jokester.
Eddie’s first job as a young teenager was a paper boy - every weekday after school he would fold the newspapers with help from Nana & Tata Davis he hopped on his bike he and go make his deliveries. He took great pride in doing so. Eddie loved and enjoyed playing outdoors with all his cousins, which I was told by his cousin Baby Joe, he remembers going to visit his nana and tatas out at Rancho Sespe. They gathered up oranges and threw them at semi trucks passing by they never told that to anyone, when mom (Madeline) noticed it, they just glanced over at one another. Eddie liked the fishing and camping trips he took with his uncles and also loved spending the night with his Nina Ruby, as he would be there often.
As Eddie got older his high school years he really made a mark on the class of ’87, he had so many friends and people he touched in little and big ways, his character was one of a kind, so special, social butterfly. His classmates recognized this early on and he gained the nick name “Gumball!” He filled his pocket with gumballs and the name would stick with him for the rest of his life.
In 1990 Eddie met Marina whom became his wife in 1991 they as a couple had daughters Candace and Alle, and son Jordan our family was now complete. Eddie was a loving husband, father, provider, hard worker, devoted, selfless, our rock and strength for all the years to come. On August 17th 2019 we celebrated our 28th wedding anniversary.
Dad loved us from day 1 as a young man he was ready to give us his all and that’s exactly what he did everyday since we were in our diaper days to guiding us through growing up. It couldn’t have been done without him there. We have countless memories of laughs, fights, parties and holidays that we’ll never forget. One memory out of many we have was a birthday party we had a sleepover and he passed out drunk in the living room so we decided to put some makeup on him and paint his nails and toe nails. He woke up and we ran away laughing, he loved keeping us entertained and making sure we had our fun and had good birthdays. Like mom said he was our rock, our warrior, our selfless and loving Dad that will forever be in our hearts.
Eddie is survived by his loving wife Marina, daughters Candace and Alle (Art), son Jordan (Courtney), grandkids Isabella, Martin, Audrina, Gaby, Caleb, Aaliyah, Ava, Angela, Destiny, Mya and Mika. He is also survived by his father Adrian, sisters Debbie (Marcelo) and Valerie (Pal Larry) and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and countless cousins.
We find comfort in knowing that Eddie is now in the loving arms of his mother Madeline.
Services will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery January 17th at 12pm 1698 S. Sespe Rd. Fillmore Ca 93015.

Sina Darsha Murphy

Our Mother Sina Darsha Murphy passed to God on Sunday the 8th in the early morning. After missing her husband Charles Murphy, she is now reunited with him, and at peace. We miss her dearly, and will be with her again one day, as she smiles to us waiting in heaven. Her heart stopped and the good Lord took her. She will be cremated, anyone is more than welcome to come and pay their respects to us out on Grand. We love you Momma.

Freddie Franklin Vest (1941-2019)

Freddie F. Vest, age 78, of Fillmore passed away peacefully at home on December 16th, 2019.
Mr. Vest was born May 17th, 1941, in Birmingham, Alabama to Marlon Eugene and Bertha Lee (walker) Vest. He was a longtime resident of Fillmore, Ca. He served in the U.S. Army, following his discharge from the army he worked for Fillmore /Piru citrus, Hardison Ranch as a truck driver Hauling citrus for several years and worked as a roustabout Forman in the oil fields until his retirement.
He enjoyed watching western movies, reading western books, Baseball-loved his Dodgers, hunting, gardening, but his passion was fishing. He loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and Family. He was an Auxiliary Volunteer at the Fillmore convalescent center and volunteered his time at the local food share. He was a loving Father and will be deeply missed by all Family and friends.
He preceded in death by his wife Mary Katherine Vest, daughter Sheila Ann Vest, Father Marlon Vest, mother Bertha Taylor, sister Pauline Massingale, sister Janie Webster, brother Roy Taylor and brother David Taylor.
He is survived by his sons Kenny Vest, Freddy Jr. (Christine) Vest, granddaughter, Toni (Ilyes) Gousasmia, grandsons Michael (Danielle) Alcantar, Mark (Chella) Alcantar and Isaac Montoya. Along with numerous nieces and nephews. Siblings; James (Sherie) Vest, Kennie Vest Sr., Alma Taylor, Nancy (Keith) Cottrell and Betty Miller.
Funeral Services will be held on December 27th, 2019, at Funeraria Del Angel in Santa Paula, 128 South Eighth Street Santa Paula. Viewing from 8 A.M.-10 A.M. funeral services 10 A.M-11 A.M.

Guadalupe “Lupe” Ponce (2019)

Guadalupe “Lupe” Ponce, age 89, passed peacefully on Thursday, November 28th in Piru. A long-time resident of both the Piru and Fillmore communities, her loving home was always a place of sanctuary for the many family members and friends that would frequent an opportunity to indulge in her delicious home cooking, or to savor the warm comfort of her empathic conversation. A devout Catholic, she spent her life devoted to her faith and was very proud to be in the service of the community when called upon.
A friend to many in the community, it was nearly impossible to travel in or around Piru and Fillmore without her finding someone she’d known for years. If she didn’t know you, or you were meeting her for the first time, chances are you would remind her of someone she knew or knows, and eventually you’d find yourself knowing her for years to come as a result of the ensuing conversation and developing friendship. Such was her knack for conversation, yet it was marked by perhaps one of her greatest qualities: her sincerity.
She cared deeply for all whom she called “family” or “friend” and was a constant source of guidance and support when needed. Lupe was blessed to have enjoyed four generations of her family. She was a loving wife and sister, a beloved mother of three sons and one daughter, a grandmother and a great-grandmother.
Funeral Services will begin first with the recitation of the rosary followed immediately with a Funeral Mass at 9am, December 13, 2019 at San Salvador Mission Parish in Piru with Father Barney Gatlin Officiating. Committal & Inurnment will then follow at Piru Cemetery District.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guest book, share stories, post pictures and video clips please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Lupe' name located under 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