Graciela D. Castillo

Graciela Duran Castillo, affectionately known as Grace or Chela, was born on June 15, 1938, just outside Tecate in Baja California. Surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren, she peacefully passed away in Rancho Cucamonga on Monday, January 1st, 2024, at the age of 85.

Graciela was the cherished daughter of Angela Martinez† and Carmelo Duran†. Growing up in Tecate alongside three sisters and seven brothers (Marcos, José, María Eustolia, Carmen, Alejandro, Trinidad, Fernando, Alfonso, David, and María Guadalupe), she developed a strong bond with her family. As a child, her favorite pastime was assisting her mother in caring for her siblings, laying the foundation for her nurturing and caring nature.

In 1965, Graciela married her beloved husband, Jesus Castillo†, who preceded her in death on November 13, 1998. Together, they migrated to Southern California, later becoming proud U.S. citizens. Graciela leaves behind a lasting legacy through her five children (Carmelo, Gracie, Gabriela, Jesus, and Oscar), eleven grandchildren (Trevor, Cristina, Madelyn, Jonathon, Jessica, Nicholas, Gracie, Jacobo, Blake, Jessi, and Kingston), and four great-grandchildren (Elizabeth, Alex, Alanna, and Alvaro).

Graciela's greatest achievement was undoubtedly her role as an extraordinary mother and grandmother. Her favorite pastimes included gardening, walking, and cooking, and she found her greatest joy in the company of her family. As a doting grandmother, she dedicated her time to volunteering at her grandchildren's preschool at St. Peter & St. Paul Catholic School. She warmly welcomed everyone with a genuine smile, effortlessly transforming acquaintances into lifelong friends who felt like family.

Her legacy is that of a devout Catholic woman, faithfully reciting the Rosary every day. Graciela was characterized by her strong will, determination, and immense empathy, always prioritizing the needs of others. Her impact on the lives of those around her is immeasurable.

A funeral mass in honor of Graciela Duran Castillo will be held at St. Peter St. Paul Catholic Church in Alta Loma, followed by burial at Green Acres Memorial Park & Mortuary in Bloomington, CA, on January 8, 2024. She will rest eternally beside her beloved husband, in accordance with arrangements made prior to her passing.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the love, support, thoughts, and prayers received during this difficult time. Your kindness has been a source of comfort as we remember and celebrate the remarkable life of our beloved mother.

St Peter & St Paul Catholic Church 9135 Banyan St, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737 • Rosary: 12:00 p.m. • Funeral Mass: 12:30 p.m.

Green Acres Memorial Park & Mortuary 11715 Cedar Ave, Bloomington, CA 92316 • Burial Service at 3:00 p.m.