Evangelina L Yanez

Evangelina "Vangie" Lucero Yanez was a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother who was called home to rest on March 2, 2026. She entered this world on April 20, 1943, in Tucson, Arizona, near her family’s roots in the close-knit mining community of Tiger, Arizona.

Vangie's early years were spent in Tiger before her family moved to Globe, Arizona, in the early 1950’s. She graduated from Globe High School in 1961. She was the eldest daughter of six children born to Fernando and Eva Lucero.

The great love story of her life began in 1956 when she met Norbert “Dave” Yanez, her brother Fernando’s best friend. Though initially resistant, her mother's prophetic words came true, and they were united in marriage on August 23, 1962, following Dave's return from his Air Force service overseas. Vangie dedicated 23 years as a proud and resilient military wife, creating a loving home across many postings both stateside and abroad.

Her faith was a guiding light; Vangie was a devout Catholic who gave generously of her time, volunteering with the church throughout her life. Even in later years, she found comfort and connection watching the daily online Mass with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Tucson, celebrated by her nephew, Fr. Ed Lucero.

Vangie's professional life was marked by service and compassion: she worked as a secretary at Glendale High School, a culinary teacher’s aid at Cortez High School, and a records clerk for the Glendale Police Department. Her most treasured role, however, began in 1991 when she joyfully retired to become the full-time, loving guardian and babysitter for her precious grandchildren, Emilio, Dominic, and eventually Davy. Retirement also afforded her the opportunity to travel with her husband to visit and serve as part-time babysitters for her grandchildren Malcolm and Sofia who resided outside of Arizona.

She loved her family and friends with an unwavering loyalty that defined her life. She would do anything for those she held dear. A woman of many talents, her hobbies were a testament to her creative spirit, including painting, ceramics, macrame, cake decorating, and sewing. She had a wonderful zest for life, which included a passion for a good bargain, making her "Vangie's $2 blouses" famous. She was known for her strong opinions and spirited voice, her wonderful, unforgettable laugh, and her impeccable style—always with her hair done and makeup flawless.

Vangie now joins her father, Fernando; her mother, Eva; her brother, Fernando (Gloria); and her grandson, David N. “Davy” Luna, who preceded her in death.

Her memory will be forever cherished by her devoted husband of 63 years, Norbert “Dave” Yanez; her three children, Jeanne (David Luna), Norbert David III (Miriam), and Michelle (Jose Corona); her grandchildren, Emilio, Dominic, Malcolm, Sofia, and great-granddaughter, Anni, who were the absolute joy of her life. She is also survived by her brother Edward (Sandy) and sisters Esther (Dave Francis), Carmen (Danny Salcido), and Mary as well as numerous in-laws, cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. Her legacy of love, strength, and devotion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

A Visitation will be held on April 9, 2026 at 9:00am at St Helen's Catholic Church, 5510 West Cholla Street Glendale, AZ followed by the Rosary at 9:30 and then Mass at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can also be made in memory of Evangelina L Yanez to Hospice of the Valley or St Jude's Children's Research Hospital.