Aurora Gavia Mendiola's Obituary
It is with sorrow and heartbreak that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Aurora Gavia Mendiola. "Mora," age 97, was called to eternal rest on September 22, 2024, with her family by her side in Camarillo, California.
Mora was born on May 13, 1927, in San Diego de la Union, Guanajuato Mexico to Gregorio Gavia Leyva and Antonia Mendiola Camarillo, she was the third born of 15 children. However, she was a lifelong resident of Ventura County, living her best life in Oxnard, Somis and Camarillo.
Aurora is preceded in death by her loving husband Fernando L. Lopez, her son, Joseph Jess Gavia, her daughter, Camile Gavia-Herrera, her grandson, Jesse Segovia, her parents and numerous brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Aurora is a Gold Star mother, she is survived by her eldest daughter, Mary Segovia, (Thomas), daughter Mary Gavia-Barajas, Rosemary Gonzales, (Patrick), Grandchildren, Joseph Jess Gavia, Jess John Gavia, Gracie Segovia, Thomas Segovia, Fernando Segovia, Steven Gavia, Raymond Herrera, Dante Smedley, Julia Smedley, Annamarie Barajas, Michael Barajas, Patrick Michael Gonzales, Andres Gonzales and Victoria Gonzales.
Mora loved her family, she took her role as the matriarch very seriously. For years, she single handedly hosted large family events. Her cooking was mesmerizing and addicting. It was not unusual for her to have enough food to feed a small army. At any given time her children, grandchildren, sisters, neighbor and friends knew they could stop by and eat, feed whoever was with them, and pack food to go. Mora had pride that all her food was prepared from scratch and that you would never find her stove void of entrees. Except on occasion on Friday, she would allow take-out from the "Golden Chicken Inn."
Mora was an avid gardener, just like her cooking, she took pride in her unique roses and her beautifully manicured yard.
The only activity she enjoyed more than gardening and cooking was spending time with all her grandchildren. She proved to be an amazing Grandmother. She actually quit working to help with their care. Not only was she a loving Grandmother, but she ensured all her grandchildren made trips to Disneyland on a regular basis. Her support was priceless.
Mora will be greatly missed by her family and loved ones. Her love, efforts and dedication can be seen in the accomplishments of her family.
In closing, we would like to thank all of our extended family and friends for all their support and love during this difficult time.
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