Alberta Marie Heffron

Alberta grew up in Anaheim, California, alongside her sister and three brothers. As a child, she spent many hours helping her mother at a local flower shop, where her lifelong love of flowers—especially pink roses—took root.

From a young age, Alberta’s heart was for others. She was always willing to step in and help, whether moving in with her aunt who had lost her husband or assisting in raising her younger brothers. She had a gift for caring, and she shared it freely.

At 15, while working at Kress’s Department Store, she met a local boy named Jimmie Heffron. Five years later, in 1955, Alberta and Jim were married at St. Boniface Church in Anaheim and together they built a beautiful life. After living several years in Los Angeles, where their two sons, Matt and Tim, were born, the family moved to Rossmoor in 1963. A year later, their daughter, Rosanne, completed the family.

Alberta and Jim were happily married for 65 years until his passing in 2020. Both were quite athletic and together, soon found a love for bowling and then a true passion for tennis, which they enjoyed for more than 40 years. Beyond sports, Alberta expressed herself through art. She loved drawing, oil painting, and later developed an interest in china painting. She also found joy and beauty in collecting crystal bells.

Alberta’s greatest joy, however, was being a mother. She supported her children in their love for various activities, from karate to baseball, Cub Scouts to Boys Scouts, tennis to gymnastics. She was always there to encourage them to learn and do their best and to offer support in the face of challenges.

Faith was an anchor in Alberta’s life. She was a devoted member of St. Hedwig Catholic Church for over 55 years. During the years her children attended St. Hedwig Elementary School, she volunteered as a teaching assistant, living out her faith through service.

Alberta will be remembered for her warm smile and gentle spirit. She was happiest surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and her joy radiated to everyone around her. Even in her later years, as she faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s, she never lost her cheerful outlook or her trademark smile. That smile was something people commented on until her last days.

She is survived by her brother, John (Ann); children, Matt (Susan), Tim (Lisa), and Rosanne; her eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, who will forever carry her love in their hearts. Alberta’s presence was a blessing, and she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Services will be held on Wednesday, September 24, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 717 N. Bradford Ave, Placentia. The Rosary will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m., and a reception. Alberta will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Orange, California.