Stella Clifton aka Stella Zaragoza, passed away unexpectedly on October 3, 2022 at UCLA Santa Monica. Stella was born on June 23, 1966 to Victor Zaragoza and Mary Marmolejo in the City of Angels.
She graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School in 1984. She started her Associates Degree program at Mission College in San Diego and finished her degree at East Los Angeles College majoring in Criminal Justice. While going to school she had her son, Victor, in San Diego. Stella was determined to finish her education and didn't let anything stop her.
In 1986 she began her career at the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner as a Forensic Attendant for over 20 years. She later worked as a Funeral Arranger at Groman Eden Mortuary in Mission Hills for 4 years. She made many memories while working at the Coroner's office, good and bad, but she also made life-long friendships with many colleagues.
Stella met her husband Rick in 1992 and the two were married in October of 1993. Shortly after, in 1994, they welcomed their daughter, Jaymielynn.
Stella was a devoted Mother & Nana/Grandmother. Stella's favorite thing to do was spending time with family. She also loved shopping (online or in person), going to outings with friends and family and most of all she loved spending time with her grandkids.
Strong, tough, compassionate, loving and selfless are just a few words that describe who she was as a woman. She was also a mother to many. She literally loved all those who called her mom. She was truly everyone's favorite "go-to" mom. She will be deeply missed by those who knew her.
Stella is survived by her children, Jaymielynn and Victor (Berenice); grandchildren Lil Vic, Marissa and Emily; loving family pet, Dyno.
Funeral services are scheduled for Sunday, October 16th at Bastian & Perrott Oswald Mortuary from 1300-1700.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BastianandPerrott-OswaldMortuary.com for the Clifton family.
