Beatriz Graciano

Our adoring mother was born May 20, 1937 in El Capulin De Los Ruiz, Monte Escobedo, Zacatecas. She was called home on July 25, 2020 in Los Angeles, California at the age of 83. Mom went peacefully and as she wanted: in her own home surrounded by her family who loved her unconditionally. She entered eternal life to join our dad, Enrique, who predeceased her 35 years ago, as well as our brother Mike and her mother Fidelia who both left us in 2017.

We hold so many fond memories in our hearts of growing up in a small house with 8 kids. Mom was a strong and determined woman, but had lots of love in her heart for each of us. Although mom was widowed at the young age of 47, she continued to stand strong and nurtured us with her loving and caring ways. Her home was always the center of many family gatherings, and with 8 children, the house would soon be filled with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren to follow.

One of the most memorable times we have is Christmas at her house and the tamale making process. She had her assignments for each one of us and we knew better than to not follow it! All the hard work paid off when it came time to enjoy our feast of tamales. She was the best teacher to her daughters as she taught them how to make tamales on their own. When she was no longer able to participate in making them, her daughters took over and mom would always supervise to make sure they were done right. She was very proud because they tasted just like hers!

Mom was always the center of our attention. At every birthday party for the grandkids, she was always lavished with love from all of us. Mother’s Day was also very special because she was doted on throughout the entire day. She would even brag to her neighbors and friends about all the gifts and flowers she had received from all her kids, grandkids and great grandkids; her kitchen looked like a flower shop!

She loved music, especially mariachi and accordion music. It always brought her good memories of when she was a young bride starting her life with our dad. Besides music, she also loved a good shopping trip and she fought hard to get well and come back home to us and go shopping once again, but it was not meant to be.

Although it hurts us to part with her, we know she was tired. But we were blessed with the opportunity to bring her home and lover her extra! We pampered her and told her how much we loved her, over and over again. She acknowledged our love by squeezing our hands very tight. Mom leaves a legacy of 7 children – Art, Elvia, Jay, Rosario, Enrique, Queta and Rosa Elva, 26 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, 7 brothers and sisters and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members who all adored her and will miss her greatly.

Mom- We know you are happy in your new place and you deserve that, you’ve earned it. You are now free of pain and sorrow. Please pray and watch over us and guide us every step of the way. It’s your time to dance with our dad and brother. We will forever hold you in our hearts and we promise to keep your memory alive.

You are, and always will be, the best “Ama” in the world!