Velacita Lopez

December 24, 1966 in Sacaton, Arizona to Daniel Lopez, Sr. and Thelma Miguel.Velacita is survived by her children Vanessa Soliz, Mary Anna Diaz (Soliz), Danny Soliz, Jr; her brother Gabriel L. Lopez; her sister Lanita F. Lopez; 6 grandchildren, 1 Great-Granddaughter and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her Parents and brother Daniel J. Lopez, Jr.

Velacita lived a wonderful life rooted in her O’odham Him-Dak (Way of Life), Catholic Faith, Love and Devotion to her family. Velacita was a Language Technician for the Ak-Chin Language Department for over 15 years. As a fluent speaker of her O’odham

Language she spent many years collaborating with other fluent speakers to develop the very first Ak-Chin O’odham Dictionary which was published in 2023. When she was not

working on the dictionary she was teaching the language to anyone in her Community who showed interest in learning ranging from pre-school children to Adults. As a strong

believer of upholding the value of her O’odham Tradition, Velacita always assisted with the Women’s Traditional Toka Games held yearly in her Community. She would pray the rosary faithfully for her family or those in need of prayer. Velacita enjoyed watching

football and baseball. She was a loyal Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Diamondbacks and University of AZ Wildcat fan. Velacita will be remembered as someone who often

expressed her thoughts or concerns, helped when help was needed, danced when music was played and brought laughter to those around her. The family of Velacita extends their heartfelt gratitude for the love, prayers, and support received during this difficult time. Velacita’s memory will forever remain a blessing to all

who knew and loved her. Traditional Rosary for Velacita will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, 4:00pm and Catholic Mass to follow at 5:00pm at the St. Francis of Assisi Mission Church, 16657 N.

Church Street, Maricopa, Arizona, 85139, Ak-Chin Indian Community. Following Mass Service an All-Night Vigil will be held at the San Juan Chapel, 47463 W. Farrell Road,

Maricopa, Arizona 85139. Traditional Burial on Saturday, July 18, 2026, 5:00AM at the Ak-Chin Indian Community Cemetery.

Flower Tributes may be sent to the Soliz Residence, 47401 W. Farrell Road, Maricopa, Arizona 85139 or a memorial contribution may be made in memory of Velacita Lopez to the American Kidney Foundation.