Born on July 20, 1939, in Pomona, California, to Lutario and Rita Salazar, Virginia married the love of her life, Ralph Partida Jr., on September 13, 1959. They shared nearly 60 years of marriage until his passing in January 2019.
Virginia and Ralph lovingly raised seven children: Father Rafael Partida, Duane Partida, Theresa Partida, Gerald Partida (Velia), Marie Jensen (David), James Partida (Kathleen), and Adriana Silva (Ramon). Her greatest joy was her family, and she was blessed with 24 grandchildren, as well as many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and godchildren.
Virginia is survived by her sister, Anita Meraz; her seven children; and her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Deacon Ralph Partida Jr.; her parents, Lutario and Rita Salazar; and her brothers, Joe Salazar and Edward Salazar.
A woman of unwavering faith, Virginia devoted her life to the Catholic Church. Following a Cursillo retreat in the early 1970s, she and Ralph experienced a profound spiritual conversion that deepened their love for God and His Church. Virginia faithfully served the Cursillo Movement for many years as a member of the kitchen team, a speaker, and eventually a weekend director. Alongside her husband, she taught Natural Family Planning when few others were willing to do so; together, they also instructed Pre-Cana marriage preparation and baptism classes at Our Lady of Guadalupe.
In recognition of their extraordinary service, Virginia and Deacon Ralph were honored with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross, bestowed by the Vatican and the Diocese of San Bernardino. They also received the Bene Merenti Medal from the Holy Father in acknowledgment of their distinguished and faithful service to the Church. Furthermore, Virginia was a member of the Order of Discalced Carmelites Secular in California, where her vocation reflected the quiet, steady faith that guided her throughout her life.
Beyond her many years of ministry, Virginia found great joy in decorating cakes, sewing, and crafting handmade cards for family celebrations. Through these creative gifts, she expressed her love in quiet and meaningful ways, possessing a special talent for making her loved ones feel deeply cherished.
