It’s with profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Michael Ellen Alanis on August 26, 2025, at the age of 72. She passed away peacefully in Clovis, California surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Fresno, California on November 7, 1952, to Jesus and Jessie Alanis and was a lifelong resident of Fresno.
Michael was also known as Mama, Sissy, Grandma, Auntie, Cousin, Nanny and Friend. She was known for her unwavering love for Jesus and loved to be called the daughter of the One True King. She was amazingly kind and loved her family endlessly. She will always be remembered for her warm hugs and sweet kisses. She cherished being a grandmother to her 12 grandchildren Peter, Noelle, Victoria, Jessie, Isaiah, Alyssa, Jacob, Ace, Christyan, Frankie, Cayleigh, and Isabella. An aunt to her 4 nephews Matthew, Philip, Nicholas, and Mitchell, a great aunt to 3 Ava, Olivia, and Elliot. She also loved being a nanny to 3 children Madison, Kendall and Wade who all loved her dearly. She enjoyed the simple things in life such as crafting. She enjoyed crocheting gifts, making jewelry, personalized calendars, painting little bird houses or anything she thought her loved ones would like. She was so talented, and we always wanted her to sell it, but all she wanted was to give it away and see a smile. She enjoyed feeding the hummingbirds, standing outside to watch a thunderstorm, even though the news said to stay inside. Her memorable quotes were “Why do you guys always make fun of me?”, to which we would say, “You give us a lot of material.” Then she would laugh! Her heart touched the lives of all who knew her and many who she barely passed by with a smile.
She was proceeded in death by her parents Jesus and Jessie Alanis. She is survived by her children Anna Soliz, Lori Tafoya, Michael McFarland, Christie Ortega, and Jeffery Legler. She is also survived by her siblings Valerie Alanis, Robert and his wife Frances Alanis, and Steven Alanis.
A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held at Fresno Memorial Gardens, 175 S. Cornelia, Fresno, CA 93706 on September 30, 2025, at 10:00 A.M.
Our mother is deeply missed by us, and we are joyful knowing she is happy in the arms of Jesus and reunited with all who have gone before.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Poverello House, Miss Winkles Pet Adoption Center, or your favorite no kill shelter.
A message from Mama: “May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.” Numbers 6:24-26
