Juanita Chavez Mendoza, was born on April 26, 1925, in San Bernadino, CA to Matilde Morales Chavez & Leonardo Chavez.
She passed away February 23, 2023, in Phoenix, AZ, at the age of 97. She is survived by her husband of 77 years, Rosendo Mendoza, her sons Guillermo (Willie) & David, daughters Rosa, Consuelo (Connie) & Esperanza and sisters Frances, Matilde & Inez.
Juanita leaves behind a legacy of 22 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren & 11 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Candelaria & Lucy, her brother Bernie, her sons Rosendo (Sonny) & Gilberto, daughter Ysabel and great granddaughters Brianna & Catarina.
Juanita met Rosendo at the age of 18 in Phoenix, AZ, in the neighborhood of 5th Ave and Buckeye. They lived in that neighborhood until the late 70’s and became Ninos to just about everyone, whether it was thru baptism, confirmations and/or marriages. After moving to the house on Almeria, she continued caring and nurturing for her kids and grandkids.
She will be greatly missed by all and always remember for her love of dancing, vicks, chiles, the casino, her matching purses, shoes & jewelry, her red lipstick, blush & nail polish.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 10:00am with the funeral service starting at 11:00am at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix. Burial to follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Phoenix.
Juanita Perdue
My fondest memories of my Great Tia Jenny:
Tio Rosendo and Tia Jenny would come to my Tata & Nana’s Apolonio & Lucy’s home to visit us, with their Granddaughter Priscilla. They would bring us presents wrapped in the comic strip from the newspaper. I thought that was very unique and cool! I hid in the restroom when Tia Jenny pierced my sister’s ears and I was next in line! They were super nice to us and Tia Jenny would always be laughing with my Nana. I know she had a good and long life with Tio, and all of her whole beautiful family. Which always brings peace to mind when we lose our loved one’s. Until we meet again rest in peace Tia Jenny! Hugs and kisses to my cousins you are in my thoughts and prayers.
God bless,
Juanita (Janie Mendoza) Perdue
Monica Keener
My condolences to Rosa and her family over the passing of their dear Mother.. I’ve been in Pennsylvania now for almost 20 years, but when I did fly back to Phoenix visiting, I tried to make time to go visit with Juanita and her husband. I’m very sorry that I didn’t get to visit With Mother and Papi on my last visit but know I was thinking about them often. Such a beautiful lady, no matter her age. Rest in peace.
Jenner Sanchez
You truly are one of a kind Tia Will always remember your smile your laugh and “sweet”voice. Thinking about all the memories I realize there weren’t enough. You Wiil forever be in my hart ❤️ tito.
Josephine Mendoza-Nunez
My sincere love and condolences to our family. What a legacy she leaves behind. I will always remember my Great Tia looking lovely and happy n laughing and visiting my grandmother Lucy Mendoza. She leaves beautiful memories in my ❤️. God rest her soul. Hugs to everyone I love you all. Josie Mendoza-Nunez – Whittier, CA
Leonardo Meza
I only met my Tia Jenny a few times when she visited California, I remember her being a strong willed person with a zest for life. My mother Matilde always speaks of her and asks of her even now. My mother recounts all her siblings, to include memories in Salinas with my grandfather Leonardo Chavez. She will always remember Tia Jenny as a strong presence and will miss her dearly.
Matilde sends her love and condolences to the family in Phoenix.
Leonardo Meza (Matilde’s son)
Raymond Miranda
First of all I would like to send my condolences to the family. I remember my Tia Jenny very fondly. She had a great sense of humor. One time my wife Jennie and I were visiting and she took us to the casino. We were crossing the street and her and my tio were crossing in the crosswalk. She yells at us “oye no crucen por ahi porque ahi no pagan pero por aqui si pagan. We all had a good laugh about that.