Carmen Araiza Esparza

Carmen Esparza, a beloved mother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at the age of 82. She was born on March 8, 1944, and lived a life defined by love, strength, and devotion to her family.

Carmen grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, and graduated from Phoenix Union High School, Class of 1963. She carried the values of hard work, community, and resilience with her throughout her life.

Carmen was the heart of her family, known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support of those she loved. She found great joy in bringing people together—whether through family gatherings, shared meals, or simple moments of laughter. Her presence created a sense of home wherever she was.

Prior to her retirement, she was also a dedicated professional who served as a parent-teacher liaison at Solano School. Carmen was deeply valued by teachers and staff for her compassion and commitment. She enjoyed connecting with parents through coffee talks and took pride in helping families access resources to support both students and their families.

On July 16, 1967, Carmen married Adolfo Mendoza Esparza in Phoenix, Arizona. Together, they shared over 44 years of marriage until his passing in 2011. She devoted her life to her family and remained a constant source of love, strength, and guidance.

Carmen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Adolfo Mendoza Esparza; her brother, Abraham (Abe) Araiza; and her parents, Abraham E. Araiza Sr. and Carmen R. Esparza. She is survived by her daughters, Theresa Esparza and Lisa Esparza, and her son, David Esparza. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she cherished deeply.

She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her resilience, and the deep care she showed to everyone in her life. Her legacy of love and service will live on through all who knew her. She will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held from 5:00–8:00 p.m., with a Rosary Prayer Service at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at St. Gregory Catholic Church, 3424 N. 18th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85015. Interment will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.