Maria Del Refugio "Cuca" Amaya Pedroza

July 6, 1927 – January 25, 2022

It is with great sadness that the family of Maria Del Refugio “Cuca” Amaya Pedroza announces her passing on January 25, 2022, at the age of 94, when God called her home to her final resting place.

Cuca was born on July 6, 1927 in San Alberto, Durango, Mexico. She was one of 12 children born to Norberto Amaya & Narciza Tovar.

Cuca will forever be remembered by her three grandchildren, Michelle Pedroza, Daniel Pedroza and Jesse Pedroza; four great grandchildren, Danielle Pedroza, Christian Pedroza, Brittney Pedroza and Avery Pedroza; three younger, sisters, Catalina De La Rosa, Adela Gonzalez and Paula Medina; seven nephews, Roberto Canchola, Jose Gonzalez, Rafael Gonzalez, Rene Gonzalez, Carlos Medina, Roberto Medina and Gerardo Medina; two nieces, Maria Gaytan and Irma Medina.

Cuca was also lovingly known as Jefa, Grandma Cuca, Grandma Cookie, Quita, Cuquita, and La Canica.

Cuca gave birth to Jesus “Chuy” Pedroza on April 17, 1954. He was her pride and joy. Chuy passed away on October 24, 2018. However, during her lifetime, Cuca was a 2nd mother to all the children in her family.

Cuca was the Matriarch of our family; the rock, the peace maker. Whenever there was family turmoil, she would always say “ay que perdonar” which translates to “you have to forgive”. She was a proud and independent woman who raised her only child; Jesus “Chuy” Amaya Pedroza by herself.

Cuca was a smart, hardworking and a very independent woman. And those who knew her, loved her.

Cuca will be dearly missed and will live in our hearts forever!

A velorio/visitation for Maria will be held Monday, February 14, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Valhalla, 10621 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606. A misa/mass will occur Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 10:30 AM at Mission San Fernando Rey de España, 15151 San Fernando Mission Blvd, Mission Hills, CA 91345. A sepelio/graveside service will occur Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 12:00 PM at San Fernando Mission Catholic Cemetery, 11160 Stranwood Ave, Mission Hills, CA 91345.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.piercebrothersvalhallamortuary.com for the Amaya Pedroza family.